Food waste and its effect on green retailing in South Africa

Abstract

Food waste and its contribution towards environmental degradation, wastage of embedded resources and food insecurity is receiving more attention globally. Retail businesses increasingly use green retailing to address food waste by attempting to balance business and environmental sustainability. This paper explored food waste management practices in the South African retail sector. Data was gathered from retail waste management companies, retail industry associations and industry specialists in South Africa. The data was analysed thematically. The major findings show that a few major South African retailers have implemented some green retail practices to reduce food waste. Green retailing as a tool for addressing food waste in South Africa is in its initial phase, with the potential to progress with rising industry stakeholder pressure. Recommendations were made for both retailers and policy-makers to encourage food waste reduction.