How many pounds of used coffee grounds are thrown away each year?

Approximately 9 million tons of used coffee grounds are thrown away each year in the United States alone, which is equivalent to about 18 billion pounds. Globally, the figure is even higher, as coffee remains one of the most popular beverages worldwide. Many of these grounds end up in landfills, contributing to waste, although they can also be repurposed for various uses such as composting and gardening.