The relationship between minimalist lifestyle and food waste reduction behavior of generation Z in Semarang, Indonesia.

Food waste is a pressing global challenge with substantial environmental, economic, and social consequences. Generation Z, characterized by dynamic consumption patterns and increasing exposure to sustainability discourses, represents a crucial demographic for understanding the drivers behind food waste reduction intentions. This study aims to examine the relationship between minimalist lifestyle orientation and the intention to reduce food waste among Generation Z, while also assessing the roles of environmental concern, ethical consumption, awareness of behavioral consequences, determination of responsibility, personal norms, and self-reporting behavior. A quantitative research design was implemented, involving 104 Generation Z respondents who completed an online Likert-scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation to determine the strength and significance of associations between the variables. The results reveal that environmental concern, ethical consumption, awareness of behavioral consequences, personal norms, and self-reporting behavior are significantly and positively correlated with the intention to reduce food waste. In contrast, minimalist lifestyle and determination of responsibility show no significant correlation with this intention. These findings indicate that psychological and ethical factors are more influential than lifestyle orientation in shaping young consumers’ motivation to reduce food waste. The study contributes valuable insights for designing targeted educational initiatives and sustainability programs aimed at promoting responsible food practices among Generation Z.