Determinants of household behavioural intention towards reducing, reusing and recycling food waste management

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to investigate the determinants of household behavioural intention towards household reducing, reusing and recycling behaviour of food waste management. Design/methodology/approach The data were collected from 670 households in Malaysia and analysed by using the partial least square method. Findings The findings reveal that motivation to participate, ability to participate and perceived benefits are the crucial factors that significantly influence households’ attitudes. Household attitude has a significant impact on household behavioural intention, whilst social influence and perceived behavioural control are not associated with it. Government support is positively related to perceived behavioural control. The result also indicates that household behavioural intention has a significant impact on household reducing, reusing and recycling behaviour. Research limitations/implications The participants of this study were involved in home planning and food preparation in Malaysia. The individuals in charge of the household might have more awareness of food planning and waste control. Thus, it is recommended to adopt findings from other countries and learn from the experience of the local and international communities. Practical implications The households’ behavioural intentions can lead to the reducing, reusing and recycling behaviour of food waste management. The government policy mechanisms and households’ awareness can work effectively against food waste reduction because evaluations of the food waste programme were found to be scarce. Social implications Food insecurity is one of the major social problems. Many people are not aware of the food waste impacts and consequences; thus, motivation, knowledge and information should be provided to the consumer through forums and campaigns. Originality/value The findings contribute to new insights of household behavioural intention towards food waste reduction management by assessing the determinants of household attitude and government support for food waste reduction management programmes towards household reducing, reusing and recycling behaviours.