University Students’ Food Waste Reduction Intentions Through an Extended Social Cognitive Theory Framework

Abstract

Purpose: As food waste reduction continues to pose a serious challenge to sustainable development in many developing economies, this study aims to examine the influence of perceived collective efficacy on university students’ intentions to reduce food waste in Vietnam. In particular, self-efficacy is investigated as a mediating factor, while food waste knowledge is incorporated as an important element characterizing the educational environment.
Design/methodology/approach: This study employs a quantitative research design using data collected from a cross-sectional survey conducted between August and September 2025. The final data consisted of 268 university students in Vietnam, collected through convenience sampling. By extending social cognitive theory, the study seeks to explore the social and cognitive mechanisms underlying students’ intentions to reduce food waste. The data are analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the SmartPLS software.
Findings: The findings show that perceived collective efficacy has a positive effect on students’ intentions to reduce food waste, both directly and indirectly through self-efficacy, which play a partial mediator. Moreover, food waste knowledge is found to be positively influenced with students’ food waste reduction intentions.
Originality/value: This study extends the application of social cognitive theory in food waste research, particularly within the context of developing economies. In addition, it offers practical implications for universities in promoting food waste reduction intentions among students through educational and collective activities.