FOOD WASTE ANALYSIS IN DUBLIN’S RETAIL SECTOR : SUSTAINABILITY AND PROFITABILITY PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Food waste in Ireland is estimated at around 750,000 tons per year, despite the country and Europe's goal of halving it by 2030. Much of this waste comes from the retail sector. Using mixed methods to analyze current practices, the Dublin study aims to provide a solution to the question of how to reduce food waste in Dublin retail. The results present both problems and opportunities, reflecting a significant percentage of shoppers who report seeing sustainability initiatives, and more than half stating that they choose where to shop based on the store's environmental friendliness. Retail managers, on the other hand, state that limited sales and promotions are their primary tactics, but legal and practical challenges hinder wider redistribution of products. Additionally, a high percentage of customers say they would use digital apps to purchase products close to expiration date at a lower price. This demonstrates how technology can help retailers generate revenue while being environmentally friendly, fostering loyalty and positive attitudes.