Which factors determine food waste-related behavior? Perspectives from households for local policymaking in developing countries

Waste management (WM) is fundamental for sustainable development; however, practices and approaches vary between developed and developing countries. Costa Rica belongs to the latter group, and although the country has shown a steady commitment toward sustainability, WM and food waste (FW) interventions are still one major challenge. There is a research gap regarding household FW-related behavior and local governments’ performance in terms of sustainability. Therefore, our study aims to address this gap by analyzing the behavior of household FW generators, linking it to the WM actions of municipalities, and contributing to local policies. The study considered a sample of households in the Greater Metropolitan Area of the country to determine consumer drivers for waste, specifically regarding their intention to avoid FW, and conducted a structural equation model based on behavioral constructs. An expert consultation with the local government’s environmental managers was also performed to address their WM policy approach. The findings indicate household FW management is driven by values, perceived behavioral control, social norms, and socioeconomic characteristics but mainly by external aspects, such as local government enabling (or disabling) actions toward FW reduction. Opportunities and policy interventions could arise when local governments recognize the potential of sound WM alternatives, beginning with options for separate organic waste collection, and following with treatments to generate value and appropriate WM approaches.