Impact of Municipal Household Pay-as-you-throw on Consumer Food Waste Behaviors and Attitudes in Japan

Le résumé fourni par la source

In Japan, half of the avoidable food waste is generated at home, and municipal household pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) policies are expected to reduce it. However, few studies have examined how PAYT influences household food waste, specifically the types of food waste-related behaviors and attitudes affected, the number of people influenced, and those impacted by PAYT. This study uses a questionnaire survey to examine these aspects by targeting residents of cities implementing PAYT. The results revealed that 13–21% of residents perceived a significant influence of PAYT and showed a lower frequency of waste of homemade meals and plate leftovers. They showed a higher frequency of food waste reduction behaviors, such as storing vegetables properly and prioritizing the consumption of near-expiry food. The perceived effect of PAYT was slightly greater for individuals who prefer to consume homemade meals. The results indicated that the overall impact of PAYT was limited and that additional interventions were required. Efforts should target behaviors that were not sufficiently promoted by PAYT, such as checking stock before shopping and planning purchases and meals carefully, as well as developing strategies that reach individuals with low homemade meal orientation. As the study uses self-reported data, findings should be interpreted cautiously. Behavioral changes should be further examined through pre- and post-PAYT longitudinal studies.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.