Food Waste Disposal in Madison Restaurants

Abstract

This paper examines the extent, current practices, and perceptions of food waste in restaurants in Madison, Wisconsin. In our analysis, we use both qualitative and quantitative data derived from a survey shared with restaurant patrons and a questionnaire sent to restaurant owners/managers. Our data collection and analysis focused on the prevalence of restaurants in Madison that compost or donate leftover food as well as customers’ opinions of these disposal strategies. We found that restaurant patrons and owners alike have an interest in sustainable dining initiatives, but there is a lack of knowledge when it comes to implementing sustainability measures. This suggests a need for future research to work on creating sustainable practices that benefit restaurant staff and patrons.