IMPLEMENTATION OF A SUSTAINABLE FOOD WASTE MANAGEMENT MODEL IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS: MINIMIZING NEGATIVE EXTERNALITIES AND PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

The issue of food waste management is becoming increasingly significant in the context of population growth, urbanization, and the rising volume of waste.The lack of an effective system for sorting and processing food waste leads to its accumulation in landfills, resulting in serious environmental, economic, and social consequences. The purpose of this study is to develop a model for sustainable food waste management in higher education institutions in Kazakhstan. This paper presents a model for sustainable food waste management in higher education institutions in Kazakhstan, developed based on a study conducted at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU). The model includes the organization of separate waste collection, the development of infrastructure for waste processing, the implementation of educational activities, and the introduction of motivational mechanisms such as incentives and discounts for environmentally friendly behavior. As part of the study, data were collected on food waste generated at ENU and its student dormitories. A survey was also conducted among students to identify their behavior regarding food waste. The questionnaire included not only questions about waste handling habits but also about possible measures to encourage students to participate in environmental initiatives. Thus, this research includes a quantitative assessment of food waste volumes in the university setting (in kg/day), as well as an estimate of the potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through the implementation of sustainable waste management practices.