[Infographic] Hungry Planet: Consumption Around the Globe

It's December, and in the United States the season of rampant consumerism is in full holiday swing. By the time 2013 is on its way to becoming a memory, the average American will have spent nearly $800 on gifts -- and who knows how much more on food, drink, and travel.

Like bluejeans and Hollywood blockbusters, the rest of the world can't seem to get enough of the supsersized American way of life. Yes, the United States, with just 5 percent of the world's population, consumes 24 percent of its energy resources, but rapidly developing countries such as China are catching up. And, as this infographic from InternationalBusinessGuide.org shows, when it comes to per capita energy consumption, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Denmark surpass us, while Austria consumes more calories and Ireland produces more trash.

Source: InternationalBusinessGuide.org

We're not suggesting you go all Ebenezer Scrooge this holiday season. But we do think Goethe was on to something when he said, "True happiness springs from moderation." Happy Holidays!

Comments

[Steve]

The data is very interesting and I love the way it is presented.