Food Chain Programme: Influencing Consumer Behaviours
Aim
To look at whether we can reduce the environmental impacts of food consumption by influencing consumer behaviour.
Introduction
Currently, households are responsible for about two fifths of the total carbon emissions in the UK. This occurs directly, through things like personal transport, heating, lighting and use of appliances and indirectly through the consumption of other goods and services including food.
Research
- According to a European Commission Report in May 2006, about one third of households’ total environmental impact can be related to food and drink consumption. (Link to the report if currently online)
- A recent 2007 study by the Waste Resources Action Programme found that around 30% of the food people buy is thrown away, most of which could have been eaten.
- A Defra commissioned study found that most consumers do not make the link between the food they eat and its impact on the environment. Most consumers purchased sustainable foods because of reasons other than the environment (i.e. taste, health and cost). (OLR Report, 2007)
Scope of Work
Our work on this project focuses on:
- building up the evidence and establishing a clear understanding of the impact of consumers consumption of food and drink; and
- providing information to allow people to make informed decisions about the food they eat. In doing so, we will be working with partners to achieve results.
At the moment, research suggests that most consumers do not make the link between the food they eat and its impact on the environment. To help address this Defra is working on a behaviour framework that includes looking at how we can address the impacts of food consumption in a way that responds to consumer needs and aspirations. Ideas on how you can reduce the impact of your food consumption is available on the Direct.gov webpage.
Information on nutrition and advice on a healthy diet is available from the Food Standards Agency.
Page last modified: 22 January 2008