WARM UP: Get an article from the front table titled “PBS: Rise of American Consumerism” Answer the ‘Warm Up’ questions in the proper section of your notes.

WORDS TO KNOW Consumption: the using up of a resource Consumerism: The theory that a country that buys goods and services in large quantities will be better off economically

[SAD] FACTS ABOUT THE UNITED STATES Americans constitute (make up) 5% of the world’s population but consume 24% of the world’s energy Americans eat 815 billion calories of food each day – roughly 200 billion more than needed, which could be used to feed 80 million people. Americans throw out 200,000 TONS of food daily The average individual daily consumption of water for Americans is 159 gallons, while more than half of the world’s population lives on 25 gallons.

How do we determine the impact of U.S. consumption? THINK: How do consumption patterns in the U.S. compare with those of other nations? How do we determine the impact of U.S. consumption? How does our economy benefit from excessive consumerism?

Activity: There are 4 reading activities to complete for your handout. 3 are in the Geography Alive! textbook, and one is an article & photos located at the front of the room.

Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a side effect of consumption...

In case you don’t empathize with people…

WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON ANIMAL LIFE?

DISCUSSION, if time permits What factors have led to overconsumption in the United States? How does advertising play a part in this problem? What are ways that we can consume less?

WE JUST NEED WALL-E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLx_7wEmwms