William Rathje

William Rathje was an American archaeologist best known for his work in garbage archaeology, a field he pioneered that studies modern refuse to understand contemporary culture and lifestyle. He founded the Garbage Project, which analyzed waste from landfills to draw conclusions about consumption patterns, recycling habits, and environmental issues. Rathje's research highlighted discrepancies between perceived waste behavior and actual data, providing insights into societal attitudes towards garbage and sustainability. His innovative approach helped raise awareness about waste management and environmental impact, influencing both academic research and public policy on waste and consumption.