Sustainable Consumption of Households According to the Zero Waste Concept

Abstract

The actions, decisions and behavior of consumers in a circular economy are defined as a circular consumption system. The circular economy is an alternative economic model to the linear model of production and consumption. This model is in line with the zero waste concept, which according to the Zero Waste International Alliance, is an ethical, economical, efficient and forward-looking concept in which consumer behavior includes buying products, caring for them and then recycling or reusing them. This is closely linked to adopting and committing to the circular business model of extending and reusing products. The aim of the study was to identify and describe consumer behavior and activities related to the zero waste concept. The analysis was conducted in the context of reusable products. The research was based on the CAWI method. The tool used to obtain the information was a structured questionnaire. The survey included 821 respondents from Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine. The survey shows that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the consequences of consumption not based on choices with a positive attitude towards the environment. In addition, consumer sensitivity to environmental problems is growing. Growing consumer awareness and the promotion of healthy lifestyles by environmental organizations and movements are reversing unfavorable trends in favor of conscious consumption based on rational consumer choices, which translates into economic effects for households. The study found that the behavior of many respondents fits into the zero waste concept, implementing habits on a daily basis that are in line with sustainable consumption.

Impact of Economic Awareness on Sustainable Energy Consumption: Results of Research in a Segment of Polish Households

“…Eco-friendly home design principles, integrating passive solar heating, efficient insulation, and renewable materials, enhance energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality while reducing operational costs [53]. Conscious consumer behavior, marked by mindful purchasing decisions, durable product selection, and support for environmentally responsible brands, cultivates a culture of responsible resource stewardship and fosters a transition towards sustainable consumption patterns [54].…”

Zero-waste initiatives and circular economy in the U.S.: A review: Exploring strategies, outcomes, and challenges in moving towards a more sustainable consumption model

“…This shift is driven by the increasing recognition of the unsustainable nature of the traditional linear economy, characterized by a 'take-make-dispose' model, and the urgent need to adopt more sustainable practices (Awasthi, 2023). The zero-waste concept, as defined by the Zero Waste International Alliance, is an ethical, economical, efficient, and forward-looking approach that encourages consumers to buy products, care for them, and then recycle or reuse them, thereby closing the loop of product lifecycles (Bogusz et al, 2023). The circular economy, an alternative to the linear model, focuses on reducing waste and extending the life of resources.…”

“…In the United States, the adoption of these concepts has been influenced by growing consumer awareness and sensitivity to environmental problems. This awareness is partly driven by the promotion of healthy lifestyles by environmental organizations and movements, leading to a reversal of unfavorable trends in favor of conscious consumption based on rational consumer choices (Bogusz et al, 2023). The shift towards sustainable consumption models in the U.S. is evident in the increasing number of households and businesses adopting zero-waste practices and the growing interest in circular economy models.…”

“…While there are challenges to be overcome, the increasing adoption of these practices across various sectors indicates a positive trend towards a more sustainable future. The success of this transition will depend on continued efforts in education, policy-making, and innovation in sustainable practices (Awasthi, 2023;Bogusz et al, 2023).…”