EXHIBIT 12.1 Waste Management, Inc. Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (In Millions, Except Ratios) (Unaudited) <Table> <Caption> Years Ended December 31, ---------------------------------------- 2002 2001 2000 ---------- ---------- ---------- Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes, undistributed earnings from affiliated companies, and minority interest $ 1,254 $ 792 $ 344 ---------- ---------- ---------- Fixed charges deducted from income: Interest expense 462 541 748 Implicit interest in rents 66 65 74 ---------- ---------- ---------- 528 606 822 ---------- ---------- ---------- Earnings available for fixed charges $ 1,782 $ 1,398 $ 1,166 ========== ========== ========== Interest expense $ 462 $ 541 $ 748 Capitalized interest 20 16 22 Implicit interest in rents 66 65 74 ---------- ---------- ---------- Total fixed charges $ 548 $ 622 $ 844 ========== ========== ========== Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 3.3x 2.2x 1.4x ========== ========== ========== </Table>