EXHIBIT 12
 
WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC.
 
COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
(In Millions, Except Ratios)
(Unaudited)
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2008     2007  
 
Income before income taxes, losses in equity investments and minority interests
  $ 395     $ 368  
                 
Fixed charges deducted from income:
               
Interest expense
    122       135  
Implicit interest in rents
    9       20  
                 
      131       155  
                 
Earnings available for fixed charges(a)
  $ 526     $ 523  
                 
Interest expense
  $ 122     $ 135  
Capitalized interest
    4       4  
Implicit interest in rents
    9       20  
                 
Total fixed charges(a)
  $ 135     $ 159  
                 
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges
    3.9x       3.3x  
                 
 
 
(a) To the extent interest may be assessed by taxing authorities on any underpayment of income tax, such amounts are classified as a component of income tax expense in our Statements of Operations. For purposes of this disclosure, we have elected to exclude interest expense related to income tax matters from our measurements of “Earnings available for fixed charges” and “Total fixed charges” for all periods presented.


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