Exploring the potential of industrial symbiosis to recover food waste from the foodservice sector in Russia

Abstract The challenge of food waste in global foodservices is significant, and novel approaches are required for its minimization. These approaches can be grounded on the principles of industrial symbiosis which promote inter-sectoral collaboration for better resource efficiency. Foodservices can partner with farmers for food waste collection and its subsequent use as fertilizer or animal feedstock. Anecdotal evidence of industrial symbiosis adopted by foodservices and farmers exists, but no empirical research has been undertaken to understand the determinants of its adoption and how these could be reinforced. This study explores the potential of industrial symbiosis to minimize food waste in commercial foodservices in Russia. By interviewing foodservice providers and farmers, the study demonstrates willingness of selected stakeholders to uptake industrial symbiosis as a means of food waste recovery, but also as an opportunity to reinforce social and network capital of foodservice operators and farmers. To encourage broader industry uptake, policy-makers should build inter-sectoral capacity by connecting foodservices and farmers. Not only will this minimize food waste but can also build more resilient and responsive food supply chains.