The challenge

Reusable take out plastic packaging is emerging as a possible solution to eliminate single use plastic packaging yet there is a lack of understanding regarding consumer attitudes and perceptions. Initial insights identified a number of potential challenges for consumers including concerns about hygiene, COVID related risk perceptions and inconvenience. This project will explore the challenge of reusables within NHS settings (e.g. hospital catering).

The key research question for this project will focus on understanding current attitudes, perceptions, behaviours (including cognitive and affective factors) concerning reusable food and drink containers. A central element will be to explore people’s willingness to adopt solutions, based on perceived benefits and barriers to change specifically within an NHS setting. The student will have the opportunity to develop policy briefing reports and guidance for best practice for businesses to implement real-world change.

It is anticipated that methods will include a mix of qualitative and quantitative approaches involving visual analysis, interviews, rapid ethnography, and analysis of social media and we are open to creative methods and theories which reflect the candidates’ specialist area.

Funding partner

FSG are an innovative company who supply reusable alternatives to takeout disposables and are developing products and systems with a positive social, environmental, and economic impact. FSG work in universities and hospitals.