Exhibit 12.1 Waste Management, Inc. Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (In millions, except ratios) (Unaudited) Years Ended December 31, ------------------------------ 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ Income before income taxes, cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles and minority interests $1,129 $1,249 $ 789 ------ ------ ------ Fixed charges deducted from income: Interest expense 439 467 544 Implicit interest in rents 69 66 65 ------ ------ ------ 508 533 609 ------ ------ ------ Earnings available for fixed charges $1,637 $1,782 $1,398 ====== ====== ====== Interest expense $ 439 $ 467 $ 544 Capitalized interest 22 20 16 Implicit interest in rents 69 66 65 ------ ------ ------ Total fixed charges $ 530 $ 553 $ 625 ====== ====== ====== Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 3.1x 3.2x 2.2x ====== ====== ======