Insight into Environmental Sustainability in Freetown Through Household Food Loss and Waste Management

Background: Food Loss and Waste (FLW) at the household level presents a growing threat to environmental sustainability across urban areas of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This qualitative study examined the causes, patterns, and forms of FLW disposal in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and its environmental implications. Methods: Twenty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely among lower-middle-income households in Freetown. The study combined convenience and snowball sampling to reach thematic saturation. The data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Food loss and waste in Freetown are not a consumerist behavioral problem but rather a problem of scarcity, insecurity, and infrastructure failure. While behaviors such as overbuying and cooking appear remarkably similar to those in high-income countries, the motivations differ significantly. Households used electric freezers for food preservation, but frequent blackouts led to significant food spoilage. In addition, food waste is mixed with general household waste and disposed of illegally. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant gap in the localized FLW research in Sierra Leone. It emphasizes the need for integrated policy, infrastructure investment, community education, and awareness campaigns.