A new study published by The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) “FoodPath – Investigating Behavioural Interventions to Reduce Food Waste in Irish Households” has found two solutions to prevent food waste. Conducted by the Clean Technology Centre (CTC) at Munster Technological University (MTU) in Cork, this study represents a significant step forward in tackling food waste in Ireland using behavioural change approaches in households and communities.
With food waste contributing 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and Ireland currently off track to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3 of halving food waste at the consumer level by 2030, the FoodPath research focused on actionable strategies to address this critical challenge.
The research included two interventions to noticeably reduce food waste:
Intervention A: A household-focused approach, empowering individuals through tools, nudges, and targeted messaging delivered via local waste collectors, achieved a 16% reduction in food waste between pre and post-intervention periods.
Intervention B: A community-based approach, involving local groups like Skibbereen Tidy Towns and Clean Ireland, sought to shift social norms through engagement and training. While its quantitative results were mixed, it provided valuable insights into the potential of community-driven initiatives.
Led by Dr Colum Gibson at Clean Technology Centre (CTC) in MTU Cork’s Bishoptown Campus, the research team included experts Eileen Mitchell, Alberto Longo, and Elizabeth Gold from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), alongside Keelin Tobin and Sarah O’Connor from CTC. The project benefited from collaboration with local stakeholders, including Clean Ireland in Ennis, KWD in Skibbereen, County Cork, and Sandra Flynn of Skibbereen Tidy Towns.
Commenting on the report, Dr Colum Gibson said: “We’re proud to present our research in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency to address food waste in Ireland. Food waste is not just a national issue, but a global one, with a third of it being lost or wasted throughout the food supply and consumption chain. Our research demonstrates that tailored behavioural interventions can make a real difference in reducing food waste and supporting Ireland’s climate and sustainability goals.”
The findings from the FoodPath project provide a roadmap for policy-makers, waste management companies, and community leaders aiming to mitigate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of food waste. Watch the short project highlights video below.