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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 11, No. 12
Publication Date: December 25, 2024
DOI:10.14738/assrj.1112.18034.
Romprasert, S., Srihachai, A., Tanamee, D., & Wiriyapinit, S. (2024). Thai Consumers' Perceptions of Sustainable Food Packaging.
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 11(12). 154-172.
Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom
Thai Consumers' Perceptions of Sustainable Food Packaging
Suppanunta Romprasert
The Faculty of Economics,
Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Atsanee Srihachai
School of Economics, Yunnan University
of Finance and Economics, China
Danai Tanamee
The Faculty of Economics,
Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Sutthanuch Wiriyapinit
The Faculty of Economics,
Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
ABSTRACT
This study explored Thai consumers' perceptions of sustainable food packaging,
investigating factors influencing their awareness, such as environmental
consciousness and knowledge of eco-friendly options. Conducted through a
structured survey with 800 Thai online food consumers, the research assessed
attitudes toward plastic packaging waste, factors guiding the preference for
sustainable options, and potential impacts on the food service industry. Findings
revealed a substantial surge in Thai consumer interest in sustainable food
packaging, driven by heightened environmental awareness. However, a significant
gap emerged between consumer demand and the limited availability of sustainable
options in the Thai online food sector. Despite growing interest, consumers lacked
specific knowledge about diverse sustainable packaging alternatives and their
environmental implications. This knowledge gap poses a challenge in aligning
consumer aspirations with industry choices and the global sustainability standard
such as ISO 14001, FDA guidelines and European Green Deal objectives. The study
underscores the need for educational initiatives to enhance consumer awareness of
clearing on eco-labeling to educate consumers on the sustainability benefits of the
packaging. Bridging this knowledge gap is crucial to aligning consumer preferences
with sustainability goals in the food packaging industry partnering with eco- certification bodies to enhance credibility. The research not only identifies trends
but offers actionable steps for rising demand for sustainable alternatives, global
regulatory push, and technology driven advancements. By implementing these
recommendations, business as a leader in sustainability can meet market demands
for sustainability, contributing to a more environmentally responsible future in the
Thai online food industry regulatory requirements.
Keywords: Consumer perceptions, Eco-Friendly practices, Environmental awareness,
Food service industry, Sustainable food packaging.
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Romprasert, S., Srihachai, A., Tanamee, D., & Wiriyapinit, S. (2024). Thai Consumers' Perceptions of Sustainable Food Packaging. Advances in Social
Sciences Research Journal, 11(12). 154-172.
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.1112.18034
INTRODUCTION
The food service industry is associated with significant environmental consequences, including
energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation. Consumer awareness and eco- friendly practices can influence the industry to adopt more sustainable practices, such as
reducing single-use plastics, minimizing food waste, and sourcing ingredients responsibly
utilizing biodegradable materials such as corn starch, bamboo, sugarcane bagasse, and
seaweed. As global awareness of environmental issues increases, consumers are becoming
more conscious of the environmental footprint of the products and services they use. In
Thailand, consumers are likely to express a growing preference for eco-friendly and sustainable
options in the food service industry. For example, the materials like Polylactic Acid which
decompose in industrial composting facilities. This shift in demand can drive businesses to
adopt environmentally friendly practices to remain competitive. Governments and regulatory
bodies are increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmental conservation. In response
to global challenges like climate change, governments may enact regulations and policies that
encourage or mandate eco-friendly practices in industries, including food service. Businesses
in Thailand may face regulatory pressures to align with these sustainability initiatives.
Consumers are becoming more loyal to brands that demonstrate a commitment to
environmental and social responsibility. Adopting eco-friendly practices can enhance the brand
image and reputation of food service businesses in Thailand. Conversely, a lack of attention to
sustainability may result in negative perceptions among environmentally conscious
consumers. As concerns about resource scarcity grow, businesses are recognizing the
importance of adopting sustainable practices to ensure the long-term availability of resources.
Moreover, sustainable practices can often lead to cost savings in the long run, making them
economically viable for businesses in the food service industry. The food service industry relies
heavily on agricultural supply chains. Climate change and environmental degradation can
impact the availability and quality of raw materials. Sustainable practices, including
responsible sourcing and supply chain management, can enhance the resilience of the food
service industry in Thailand to environmental challenges. Local communities in Thailand may
be increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of businesses operating in their
areas. Food service establishments that engage with and contribute positively to their local
communities through eco-friendly practices are likely to build stronger relationships and
community support. Furthermore, consumer awareness and eco-friendly practices are having
a significant impact on sustainability in the food service industry [1]. The consumers have more
awareness of the environmental and social impacts on their food choices, they are increasingly
demanding sustainable options from restaurants and other food service establishments [2].
This shift in consumer demand is driving the food service industry to adopted eco-friendly
practices, such as using sustainable packaging, reducing food waste, and sourcing locally grown
ingredients [3]. There are several factors that are contributing to the growing consumer
awareness of sustainability [4]. One factor is the increasing media coverage of environmental
issues, such as climate change and plastic pollution. Another factor is the rise of social media,
which has made it easier for consumers to learn about and connect with sustainable businesses
[3]. Additionally, many consumers are becoming more interested in healthy eating and living a
more sustainable lifestyle. The food service industry is responding to this growing consumer
demand for sustainability in a few ways [5]. For example, in food service industry are now
offering sustainable packaging options, such as compostable food containers and recycled
utensils and transition from traditional single use plastics to reusable and recyclable options.
Others are reducing their food waste by donating surplus food to local food banks or