Efforts to reduce food waste in restaurants are crucial for business efficiency, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. Food waste varies by restaurant type, operations, menu offerings, and customer behavior, yet research on effective reduction strategies remains limited, particularly in Greece and Armenia. This study aims to identify key approaches to minimizing food waste in these countries. Using fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), a method for examining complex causal relationships, we analyzed multiple cases to determine conditions that lead to reduced food waste. Four main paths emerged: (1) digital inventory management combined with educational programs, excluding customer choice enhancement; (2) digital inventory management with flexible dining options, without customer choice enhancement; (3) educational programs with flexible dining, excluding customer choice enhancement; and (4) the combination of digital inventory management, educational programs, and flexible dining. Most cases demonstrating these paths were observed in Greece, indicating more advanced food waste management practices. Interviews highlighted recurring themes such as overordering, portion control, supplier challenges, and the importance of education and policy grounded in social responsibility. The findings provide actionable insights for restaurants and policymakers seeking effective strategies to reduce food waste and promote sustainable practices.
30 January 2025 in Bulletin of Yerevan University G: Economics
The Republic of Armenia's economic and financial sectors are heavily reliant on foreign countries, particularly the Russian Federation. This reliance spans critical areas, including energy, agriculture, trade, transportation, foreign direct investment (FDI), and remittances. This report evaluates the risks associated with Armenia's dependence on a narrow set of external partners and underscores the need for economic diversification. Key highlights are that the majority of Armenia’s natural gas and petroleum imports originate from Russia, while its agricultural trade, machinery imports, and textile exports also exhibit significant concentration. Additionally, Russian entities dominate strategic infrastructure such as telecommunications and rail transport, as well as electricity generation, transmission and distribution. Remittances from Russia have constituted an average of 60% of total remittance inflows in 2013-2022, further exposing Armenia to external economic shocks. Such dependence threatens Armenia's economic sovereignty, heightening vulnerability to foreign economic leverage and periods of economic instability abroad. To mitigate these risks, the report advocates for diversification of trade partnerships, investments, and domestic production, aiming to bolster resilience, encourage innovation, and foster sustainable economic growth.