Final answer:
America's 'throwaway society' was driven by planned obsolescence, consumerism, and aggressive advertising, leading to excessive waste and environmental issues. Shifts in urban lifestyles and the quest for economic growth further propelled this trend. Ignorance of proper disposal methods, especially for electronics, exacerbates the environmental impact of this disposable culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Suppliers encouraged America to become a "throwaway society" through a combination of strategies including planned obsolescence, pervasive advertising, and the creation of a culture of consumerism. During the post-World War II era, particularly the 1950s, an increase in the middle-class population led to greater demand for products. The suppliers responded by producing goods that would either wear out or become outdated quickly, compelling consumers to replace them frequently. Advances in credit also facilitated this transition from focusing on necessities to fulfilling wants.
The expectation of continuous economic growth and the need for job creation led to the promotion of constant consumption. However, this came at a cost, including environmental damage due to excessive waste and the exploitation of workers in factories relocated to countries with cheaper labor. Moreover, the relentless stream of advertising emphasised affordability and satisfaction, further encouraging consumerism while distracting from the underlying issues of production and labor conditions.
As urban populations grew, so did the issue of waste management. The shift from bulk purchasing to disposable packaging, and rapid changes in fashion trends, resulted in increasing amounts of garbage. Electronic waste is a prime example of this problem, with many consumers unaware of, or failing to follow, proper disposal guidelines, leading to potential environmental contamination from toxic chemicals.