Title |
A Systems Thinking Approach towards Single-Use Plastics Reduction in Food Delivery Business in Thailand |
ID_Doc |
66057 |
Authors |
Wongprapinkul, B; Vassanadumrongdee, S |
Title |
A Systems Thinking Approach towards Single-Use Plastics Reduction in Food Delivery Business in Thailand |
Year |
2022 |
Published |
Sustainability, 14.0, 15 |
DOI |
10.3390/su14159173 |
Abstract |
Sustainable consumption and production (SCP) is largely influenced by dynamics in the market system. Hence, this study adopts the systems thinking approach as a tool to understand the non-linearity and complexity of sustainable practices. The food delivery business has accelerated the plastic waste problem, especially during COVID-19 where restaurant dine-in was limited. This study aims to identify high leverage points, which contribute to system intervention strategies to improve Thailand's single-use plastics (SUP) waste situation caused by the food delivery sector. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with relevant stakeholders (n = 14). A qualitative system dynamics model analysis and thematic analysis suggest that the key leverage points include (1) benefit alignment among all stakeholders, (2) cost minimization and profit maximization, (3) laws and regulations, (4) postconsumption waste management systems, and (5) research and development. In addition, to stimulate policy initiatives, this study suggests that system intervention strategies should include behavioral instruments (setting default and eco-labelling), market-based instruments (green-packaging procurement and subsidies), and system and infrastructure provision (waste management systems and deposit return models). Partnerships, research and development, and laws and regulations are proposed as supporting measures. |
Author Keywords |
systems thinking; system dynamics; leverage points; food delivery; sustainable practices; single-use plastic; COVID-19 |
Index Keywords |
Index Keywords |
Document Type |
Other |
Open Access |
Open Access |
Source |
Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED); Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) |
EID |
WOS:000840174300001 |
WoS Category |
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology; Environmental Sciences; Environmental Studies |
Research Area |
Science & Technology - Other Topics; Environmental Sciences & Ecology |
PDF |
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/15/9173/pdf?version=1658920398
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