EXHIBIT 23.1

                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the previously filed
Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 333-45062, 333-45064 and
333-45066), Form S-3 (Registration Nos. 333-80063 and 333-97697) and Form S-4
(Registration Nos. 333-32805, 333-97699 and 333-101811), of our reports dated
February 14, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and
schedule of Waste Management, Inc. included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K)
for the year ended December 31, 2002.


                                                /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Houston, Texas
February 21, 2003