Food waste, disposal practices at the household level in urban Hyderabad

Abstract

This research article explored food waste and disposal practices at the household level in urban Hyderabad. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with residents, the study aimed to understand the patterns and underlying factors contributing to food waste generation. The findings revealed that a significant portion of food waste originated from cooking practices, purchasing habits, and mismanagement of food storage. Many households reported a lack of awareness regarding the environmental and economic impacts of food waste, which further exacerbated the issue. Disposal practices varied, with a reliance on dumping waste into landfills or providing it to livestock, while composting, though acknowledged as a viable option, was underutilized. The research highlighted the need for targeted awareness campaigns and improved waste management infrastructure to address food waste effectively. Overall, the study offered insights into the critical challenges and opportunities for reducing food waste at the household level in urban settings, contributing to broader sustainability goals.