I’m American and I have to agree with you. I’m so thankful I was brought by parents that loved to travel and explore. Oftentimes when talking about different countries and cultures to my friends they seem disinterested and I’ve even been called anti-American or snobby. I know many people that say they will never nor do they have any interest in traveling outside of America. My own brother and nephew act shocked when I mention traveling outside the country and they give me this whole “if you don’t like it here then leave” attitude. It’s mind boggling.

Where I am in the US there in no charge for bags. Grocery stores bag your groceries in plastic bags unless you bring your own which I rarely see. Restaurants pack up your leftovers in plastic or styrofoam. My city is the same as yours in that we have a recycle bin and a garbage bin but the contents of each end up in the same place.