Environmental Studies and Forestry

Curbing household food waste and associated climate change impacts in an ageing society

Y. Shigetomi, A. Ishigami, et al.

This research by Yosuke Shigetomi, Asuka Ishigami, Yin Long, and Andrew Chapman delves into the intriguing link between household food waste and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with it in Japan. The findings reveal that older households contribute significantly to food waste, driven by increased fruit and vegetable purchases. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to curb waste in an aging population.

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Playback language: English

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Abstract

This study investigates the quantitative structure of household food waste and its life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in Japan, focusing on age-related consumption patterns. Results show that per capita food waste increases with household head age, primarily due to higher fruit and vegetable purchases by older households. The highest life cycle greenhouse gas emissions from food waste were observed in the 60s age group. Despite an aging and shrinking population, food waste and emissions are projected to slightly decrease by 2040. Targeted policy interventions, particularly for older households, are crucial for achieving Japan's food waste reduction goals.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Oct 21, 2024

Authors

Yosuke Shigetomi, Asuka Ishigami, Yin Long, Andrew Chapman

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