Food waste in a first world country comes from a habit of buying more food than we need and this habit needs to go. But when it comes to habit changing, we may not be able to convince older generations to change their ways. In fact, research has shown habits are harder to change especially after the age of 30 which is where they return to their habits as it gives comfort and assurance. On the other hand, we certainly can shift these habits and mindset with the next generation, the Gen Z.

 

Gen Z is widely known for their activism especially in climate change and politics. “We’re now passionately fighting for so many social and economic issues. Safe to say, with the planet dying, we’re not taking a back seat on anything anymore. We’re tired of silence.”- DHAN ILLIANI YUSOF (WT Intelligence, Gen Z Report)

 

And where can we find them? Tiktok. In fact, it’s becoming increasingly common for Gen Z to live with only Tiktok and Instagram with more time spent on Tiktok. Both of these platforms grants instant gratification through likes and interaction. Tiktok is fast paced platform allows them to get creative in many ways. With a thirst for clout, many of them finds thrill in that 15 seconds of fame on this app and do many things from dancing, comedy, stunts. Some of these things that they do includes food of which more often than not, it goes to waste and this needs to stop.

 

Although such things are posted on Tiktok, there is a sizeable community who corrects these things and commenting on posts which they deem politically incorrect, rude or offensive. This builds a foundation of educating one another how we all can be a better person.

 

We leverage this through Tiktok, and educate the Gen Z to that food waste is not cool. Especially not for popularity. UNWFP collaborates with Tiktok to place a caution on food wastage on these posts to encourage Gen Z to waste less food starting with the content they make. Tapping on the caution labels leads to more information on food waste & UNWFP so users can get deeper understanding on unnecessary food waste.