Study title

This dataset provides the input files and results for the Mushrooms Household Simulation Model, which explores the impact of four interventions on the amount of packaging and mushroom (whole and sliced) waste generated in UK households. The interventions studied include storage temperature, storage and freezer use, pack size availability and packaging format (plastic packaging vs. Earth bag). The dataset is organised into four folders, each representing one interventions, with subfolders containing input files for different scenarios. This data can be used to analyse the effectiveness of various strategies in reducing packaging and food waste and to inform policymakers and consumer behavioural change efforts.THE PROBLEM Plastic packaging waste is a major issue that has recently entered public consciousness, with the British government committing to a 25-year plan that would phase out disposable packaging by 2042. Around 41% of plastic packaging is used for food, with the UK generating 1 million tonnes per year of packaging waste. Food packaging has had a 1844% increase in recycling since 2007, yet still only one third of food packaging is currently recycled [3]. Currently many consumers are boycotting plastic packaging. However, this is leading to a rise in food waste (and foodborne illness risk) due to decreased shelf life. Up to a third of the resources used to produce food could be saved by eliminating food waste [1]. In the UK, approximately 10 million tonnes of food are wasted every year, with the average family (i.e. a household containing children) spending £700 a year on food that is wasted. 31% of avoidable household food waste (1.3 million tonnes), is caused by a mismatch of packaging, pack, and portion size, and household food habits [2]. Plastic pollution and food waste can be reduced through product re-design and other household interventions. However, there is little evidence to determine the best solutions to reduce plastic pollution and food...