Finding out more is as easy as a Google search! I think another material that has a bigger carbon footprint is shampoo & conditioner. The making of the bottles, chemicals, and final product create a larger footprint than most think. In fact, many people have stopped using them altogether, instead using alternatives like vinegar and baking soda. Just be aware of what you use!

In North America, it has become part of our culture to consume more meat. It is not very common for people to use vegetables other than as sides because not as many people know how to cook vegetables as other countries. This shows that North America values more of the easy option and less of the healthy option.

I think the most exciting electricity solution is solar because of how efficient it is (one can MAKE money after a few years of installation) and how quickly is growing as an electrical source!

Eating smaller portions can help reduce food waste, but there are other benefits to it as well. An obvious benefit is health. One can eat less and lose weight if that is their goal. Smaller portions and regulating how much food is bought from the store can also help reduce the amount of food that gets wasted, which currently is about 1/3. Buying less food also means saving money to spend on other things.

Eating meat is part of American culture.  I think the simplicity of meat is part of the attraction.  In colonial days, I can see the appeal of meat.  You kill it and you cook it, rather than the taxing process of growing food.
Now meat based diets are what we are used to and change makes people skeptical just due to the fact that it is change.  
I think these tendencies showcase American stubbornness.  There is also a mentality of "I eat meat and I'm fine, so why change." This showcases our lack of worldly regard.