Evaluating impacts of a behaviour change intervention on Canadian household food waste reduction behaviours

In Canada, household food waste has significant negative impacts on society and the environment. This research evaluated impacts of a food waste behaviour change intervention on Canadian households. A randomized control trial was conducted on households in Wellington County, ON to compare food waste between intervention households (n = 32) and control households (n = 20) from curbside organics and garbage. The intervention attempted to change non-cognitive drivers related to food waste behaviours. Waste audits were used to measure food waste (kg) before and after the intervention, and we found no significant reductions to food waste, nor differences between intervention and control households. The eSurvey showed mixed results in how emotions influence motivation and food disposal. This research contributes to greater understanding of non-cognitive engagement in household food waste reduction and evaluation, and highlights complexities of addressing food waste in Canada as an issue requiring both individual and collective action. SSHRC grant, County of Wellington