Open Collections

Abstract

This report investigates post-consumer food waste and improper waste sorting at the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) AMS Nest, a vibrant dining and social hub on campus. Despite UBC’s established sustainability initiatives, food waste and contamination of recyclables remain significant challenges, undermining progress toward the university’s Climate Action Plan 2030 and Zero Waste Action Plan. This research explores the behavioral, infrastructural, and informational barriers that hinder effective waste sorting, offering data-driven solutions to foster sustainable consumption and disposal practices. Guided by the principles of Community-Based Action Research (CBAR), the study involved a collaborative effort with AMS Sustainability and AMS Food & Beverage Operations to ensure community- centered and ethically grounded inquiry. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, including participant observation of 144 Nest consumers, semi-structured interviews and surveys with 35 individuals, and analysis of secondary data such as previous AMS waste audits and peer-reviewed literature. These methods provided a nuanced understanding of the motivations, confusions, and systemic gaps that contribute to improper waste sorting and food waste at the Nest. Key findings reveal several challenges: widespread confusion around bin signage and labeling, lack of knowledge about recyclable materials and composting guidelines, and a general sense of inconvenience associated with waste sorting. Even well-meaning consumers often dispose of waste incorrectly due to unclear instructions or time constraints. Observations indicated frequent hesitation, mis-sorting, and a lack of engagement with existing signage, particularly at high-traffic locations like the Grand Noodle Emporium. The research underscores the importance of targeted educational resources, improved visual cues, and interactive campaigns to promote behavioral change. Proposed interventions include revised signage with clearer graphics and language, peer-to-peer engagement activities, and incentive-based programs to encourage proper sorting. These solutions aim not only to reduce food waste and contamination but also to cultivate a culture of mindful consumption and environmental responsibility across campus. This report contributes to a broader effort to combat the global food waste crisis—one that exacerbates climate change, food insecurity, and resource depletion. By focusing on scalable and community-driven solutions, the research aligns with global goals like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 12 and positions UBC as a leader in sustainable campus practices. The findings and recommendations offer a model for other institutions seeking to reduce food waste and improve waste diversion, paving the way for a more sustainable future both locally and globally. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”