Green Campaign of Food Waste Handling: Communicating the Food Sustainability

Abstract

Several cities in Southeast Asia are dealing with a variety of issues related to food waste management. The rapid growth of fast food retail in Jakarta, Manila, and Bangkok has resulted in a high level of food waste. This food waste, if not properly processed, will be harmful not only to individual health but also to the environment. Food waste management, which is primarily the responsibility of retail companies, requires the use of effective strategies and tactics. Some of the tactics that can be used include increasing consumer awareness, changing the behaviours of corporate agents, and adjusting stores and items. Another strategic approach is to lobby the government to enforce food waste management regulations. The purpose of this study is to determine which communication channels are effective in communicating the dangers and environmental awareness of the impact of food waste, based on public perception in the Southeast Asian community. How do Southeast Asians handle food waste, manage food waste, and become aware of the dangers of food waste? This study employs a quantitative approach, with questionnaires distributed at random via Google Form to 400 respondents, including 198 Indonesians, 105 Filipinos, 73 Thais, and 24 Singaporeans. According to the study’s findings, the majority of respondents were aware of the food waste problem and took measures to address it effectively. The remaining respondents were already aware of the dangers posed by food waste, but chose to disregard the gravity of the situation. Some respondents, however, are completely unaware of their food waste. Another finding is that Singaporeans have the highest level of awareness in Southeast Asia, with more than 65 percent of Singaporeans aware of the environmental dangers posed by food waste.