ADOPTION OF SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES AMONG SMALL-SCALE FOOD VENDORS IN SAN JOSE CITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70059/7pe3ht50Keywords:
Sustainability, Food Vendors, San Jose City, Waste Management, Energy ConservationAbstract
This research examined the adoption of sustainability practices among small-scale food vendors in San Jose City. These vendors played a vital role in the local economy by offering affordable food options to residents and visitors. The study aimed to assess vendors' socio
demographic profiles, evaluate their awareness and adoption of sustainable practices, and explore the challenges and opportunities they encountered in implementing sustainability. Data collection included information on age, sex, marital status, educational attainment, monthly income, and years of vending experience. Results revealed that the majority of the vendors were adults aged 31 and above, with a significant portion being female. Most had completed high school and earned less than Php10,000 per month, and the majority had been vending for 5 years or less. Vendors demonstrated strong awareness of sustainability, particularly in waste management and energy conservation, and commonly practiced activities such as sorting waste and using energy-efficient cooking methods. However, adoption levels varied due to financial constraints and the limited availability of affordable, eco-friendly alternatives. The primary challenges cited included a lack of training and high costs of sustainable materials. The study highlighted the need for targeted support from local government units and community organizations to equip food vendors with the knowledge, tools, and incentives necessary to adopt sustainable practices.
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