Abstract
The problem of food waste affects not only the economy but also society and the environment. Previous and current studies show that measures have been put in place to combat the recurring social and economic issues caused by the inefficiency of food waste management; however, this is a long way towards achieving global goals. This research aims to bridge the gap by evaluating the importance of efficiently handling urban household food waste and its correlation between economic and social factors.
It focuses on Rawalpindi, a metropolitan city in Pakistan. The core theme is value creation–leveraging the benefit of a zero-value resource to achieve social and economic benefits through the operational management of food waste in Pakistan’s crumbling economy.
It is observed in the case of Pakistan that there are many risks involved to the environment and the wellbeing of people, such as diseases and negative externalities associated with the improper handling of food waste. A sequential explanatory mixed method was used. Data were collected using a self-completed questionnaire administered to urban households (n=176), in-depth interviews with heads of household (n-21), and five focus groups (n=24).
The research revealed a need for more knowledge about the immense potential of food waste; most people are incognizant of converting it into a valuable resource. The research further revealed that social and economic factors were not only concerns but also cultural and behavioural aspects that contribute to the issue of household food waste. Individuals experienced challenges in collecting food waste as it ended up in general waste due to the unavailability of a collection mechanism. Major concerns for the households were electric power cuts and extreme weather conditions.
Implementing effective and efficient policies will add value to a valuable resource by minimizing and making the most of food waste. The study further recommends developing a mechanism for collecting and optimizing food waste so this nonvalue resource can be turned into a valuable resource.