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IMPACT OF MUNICIPAL HOUSEHOLD PAY-AS-YOU-THROW ON CONSUMER FOOD WASTE BEHAVIORS AND ATTITUDES IN JAPAN

  • Maki Nonomura - Department of Food Environment Economics, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan
  • Hajime Yamakawa - Division of Environmental Sciences,, Kyoto Prefectural University, Japan
  • Tomoko Okayama - Department of Regional Development, Taisho University, Japan
  • Kohei Watanabe - Department of Sociology, Teikyo University, Japan
  • Yasuko Seta - Division of Environmental Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University, Japan

DOI 10.31025/2611-4135/2025.19496

Released under CC BY-NC-ND

Copyright: © 2025 CISA Publisher

Abstract

In Japan, half of the avoidable food waste is generated at home, and municipal household pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) policies are expected to reduce it. However, few studies have examined how PAYT influences household food waste, specifically the types of food waste-related behaviors and attitudes affected, the number of people influenced, and those impacted by PAYT. This study uses a questionnaire survey to examine these aspects by targeting residents of cities implementing PAYT. The results revealed that 13–21% of residents perceived a significant influence of PAYT and showed a lower frequency of waste of homemade meals and plate leftovers. They showed a higher frequency of food waste reduction behaviors, such as storing vegetables properly and prioritizing the consumption of near-expiry food. The perceived effect of PAYT was slightly greater for individuals who prefer to consume homemade meals. The results indicated that the overall impact of PAYT was limited and that additional interventions were required. Efforts should target behaviors that were not sufficiently promoted by PAYT, such as checking stock before shopping and planning purchases and meals carefully, as well as developing strategies that reach individuals with low homemade meal orientation. As the study uses self-reported data, findings should be interpreted cautiously. Behavioral changes should be further examined through pre- and post-PAYT longitudinal studies.

Keywords

Editorial History

  • Received: 07 Feb 2025
  • Revised: 28 Apr 2025
  • Accepted: 21 May 2025
  • Available online: 30 Jun 2025

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