Developing a Comprehensive Framework for Food Waste Management in School: An ISM and MICMAC Approach

Food waste is a growing global challenge, and schools are a critical setting for fostering sustainable food management behaviors among future generations. This study aims to develop a comprehensive framework for food waste management among school students by integrating six key components: Awareness and Education Campaigns, Student Engagement and Empowerment, Improved Food Service and Meal Planning, Waste Tracking and Monitoring Systems, Composting and Redistribution Programs, and Policy, Collaboration, and Parental Involvement. The research objectives of this paper: (i) to identify and analyze the critical factors influencing food waste generation and management among school students, and (ii) to classify and validate these factors using the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC analysis approach to design a structured framework. A mixed-method design was employed, beginning with a literature review and expert consultation to extract key factors. ISM was then applied to establish hierarchical relationships among the factors, while MICMAC analysis classified them according to their driving and dependence power. The findings reveal that Policy, Collaboration, and Parental Involvement, along with Awareness and Education Campaigns, are strong driving factors, forming the foundation for long-term change. Student Engagement and Empowerment, supported by Improved Food Service and Waste Tracking Systems, serve as linkage factors that reinforce behavioral change. Composting and Redistribution Programs emerge as dependent outcomes, highly influenced by the strength of the other components. The study concludes with a comprehensive framework highlighting interlocking strategies where policy initiatives and education drive systemic transformation, student engagement ensures participation, and technological and environmental initiatives sustain measurable outcomes. This framework provides practical insights for policymakers, educators, and school administrators, offering a structured pathway to reduce food waste and instill sustainable habits among school students.