Understanding the food waste behaviour in university students: An application of the theory of planned behaviour

Akhter, Shahnaza and Rather, Mohmmad Irshad and Zargar, Ummer Rashid (2024) Understanding the food waste behaviour in university students: An application of the theory of planned behaviour. Journal of Cleaner Production, 437. p. 140632. ISSN 09596526

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Abstract

Food waste has a significant impact on the environment, national economies, and food security, necessitating appropriate action by policymakers. Food waste is prevalent among the young generation, so it becomes prudent to understand their food waste behaviour, involving the identification and evaluation of significant variables. This study seeks to comprehend their food waste behaviour as well as their intent to engage in such behaviour. An extended theory of planned behaviour was utilized to achieve the objectives, and a conceptual model and hypotheses were formulated accordingly. Some extensive constructs were incorporated with the theory of planned behaviour's major constructs. Data was collected via a questionnaire survey from a sample of 345 students at the University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India to identify relevant factors. Correlation analysis and regression analysis (linear regression model) were used to better understand the relationship between various variables. The intention of students not to waste food was successfully predicted using the extended theory of planned behaviour. Our study's findings revealed that several factors, such as one's attitude, behavioural control, knowledge about food waste, moral standards, eating habits, and leftover reuse routine, have a significant influence (p < 0.01) on students' desire to avoid food waste and explain 68.6% of the variance in intention to not waste food. Knowledge about food waste was by far the most significant factor associated (with max. β coefficient) with the desire not to waste food. Subjective norms did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.01) and could therefore not be used to predict intentions. The research highlights effective strategies to reduce food waste among youth by outlining the most impactful factors that explain the intention to waste less food and thus contribute to addressing the global issue of food waste.

Item Type:	Article
Authors:	Akhter, Shahnaza and Rather, Mohmmad Irshad and Zargar, Ummer Rashid
Document Language:	Language English
Subjects:	Social sciences > Sociology & anthropology > Social interaction Sustainability
Divisions:	Azim Premji University - Bengaluru > School of Climate Change and Sustainability
Full Text Status:	None
URI:	http://publications.azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/id/eprint/6949
Publisher URL:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.140632

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