Sharing our food waste research with the media: Raising collective learning

Dr Alka Nand, Dr Ananya Bhattacharya, Prof Amrik Sohal, Prof Daniel Prajogo, Dr Tharaka de Vass, 2025

Purpose

Food waste is a significant global issue, with Australia discarding 7.6 million tonnes annually—16% from food service businesses (FSB). To support the National Food Waste Strategy to halve waste by 2030, we researched on food waste in FSBs and shared the findings with the media to promote practical solutions about food waste.

Practice

We interviewed staff across 20 FSBs—from fast-food outlets to fine dining—to capture diverse perspectives from managers, owners, front-of-house staff, kitchen hands, and chefs.

Output

We shared the findings through various media platforms, including Monash Lens, Dirty Linen and The Joyful Frugalista, and Canberra’s 2CC Radio, to broaden public engagement and awareness.

Outcome and impact

The research offered practical strategies for FSBs/consumers to adjust their practices in reducing waste. These insights have sparked interest across media platforms to foster a culture of collective learning and sustainable action.