Proceedings of ICLT 2023
CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR IN CIRCULAR FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
Loh Hui Shan; Lee Ming Han; Maria Cecilia Rojas Lopez
School of Business, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore; School of Business, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore; School of Business, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore
International Conference on Logistics & Transport 2023, Helsinki, Finland, pp. 80-90
Download PDF | View interactive page
Abstract
Purpose: The objectives of this exploratory study are to understand the role of consumer behaviour in the circular economy to reduce food waste and identify alternatives to encourage consumers’ contribution to the subject. The study is focused on Singapore, where the high population density and limited resources make the Circular Economy a key tool for reducing waste, improving resource management, and enhancing resource usage. Design: First, an extensive literature review was conducted to get insights on food waste, consumer behaviour, and the circular economy. Secondly, a comprehensive survey questionnaire was created and distributed via social media platforms to collect qualitative and quantitate data from potential respondents. The collected data was categorised by relevant topics and analysed using descriptive statistics. Based on findings, key recommendations are made. Findings: Results indicate that Singapore residents are conscious of the impacts of food waste and are willing to take steps to reduce it. However, gaps in knowledge and practical approaches to achieving this goal were also identified. Raising awareness, encouraging appropriate behaviour, enabling sustainable behaviour, and collaborating with stakeholders are strategies proposed and discussed in this study to influence consumer behaviour towards the circular food supply chain in Singapore. Research limitations: By increasing the pool of respondents and gathering target data for each recommendation presented, a detailed framework for measuring the impact of consumer behaviour and creating targeted measures in the local and international context could be outlined. Perspectives from other stakeholders in the food supply chain may also be explored in future studies. Practical implications: By understanding the impact of consumer behaviour on the circular economy, policymakers and industry stakeholders can develop more targeted and effective strategies to reduce food waste and promote the adoption of
Keywords
Circular Economy; Consumer Behaviour; Food Waste Reduction; Resource Management; Singapore
Citation
Loh Hui Shan; Lee Ming Han; Maria Cecilia Rojas Lopez (2023). CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR IN CIRCULAR FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN. Proceedings of the International Conference on Logistics & Transport (ICLT 2023), Helsinki, Finland, pp. 80-90.