Being the “Better” student: intentions to reduce food waste

Abstract This study identifies factors that influence the behavioral intentions of German university students to reduce food waste, particularly the moderating role of environmental consciousness. Data were collected through a survey of 368 university students in Germany. The findings show that individual attitudes, environmental knowledge, and awareness of consequences affect students’ behavioral intentions to reduce food waste. In addition, the study introduces as a key moderating factor the concept of environmental consciousness, which strengthens the positive associations between individual attitude, environmental knowledge, and behavioral intention to reduce food waste. The moderating role of environmental consciousness in the relationship between awareness of consequences and behavioral intention is not significant, however. This research uniquely examines the factors promoting food waste reduction among university students in Germany, a group underexplored in current studies. Its insights can inform targeted interventions and enhance the understanding of sustainable behaviors in younger demographics.