Roberta Rosa Valtorta

Postdoctoral Researcher


Curriculum vitae



Department of Psychology

University of Milano-Bicocca



Household food waste reduction


Overview

A thoroughly supported finding in the literature is that food waste has become a significant global issue with environmental, economic, and social implications. Recent studies have highlighted that the majority of this waste, approximately 60%, occurs at the household level.

This line of research aims to develop strategies for reducing household food waste through psychosocial interventions. One project explores the effectiveness of social media content related to food waste prevention in shaping behaviors and increasing awareness of the issue. Specifically, we are examining how different types of content – such as posts with practical tips, educational messages, and awareness campaigns – can influence individuals' attitudes toward food waste, aiming to understand the potential of social media as a tool for promoting more sustainable consumption habits.

Another ongoing project focuses on encouraging leftover reuse through the use of infographics combined with affective nudges. By raising awareness and using positive reinforcement, the study investigates how such means can shape participants' attitudes and behaviors over time, supporting sustainable practices. Sample infographics that we created and used in this research are provided below.
Infographic on the environmental impact of food waste
Infographic on the economic cost of food waste
Infographic on the average individual waste in Italy
Infographic on the solutions through leftover reuse

Funding

This project has been funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).


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