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Public perceptions of food’s biodiversity footprints

Author

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  • Stoeckli, Sabrina
  • Merian, Sybilla

    (University of Zurich)

  • Holenweger, Geraldine
  • Nielsen, Kristian Steensen
  • Natter, Martin

Abstract

Food is a major driver of the biodiversity crisis. Therefore, fostering biodiversity-friendly diets is essential for reducing biodiversity loss and restoring nature. However, how accurately the public perceives biodiversity impact of food is unknown. We conducted a preregistered quota-based study with 1,744 citizens from Switzerland to examine public perceptions of food-related biodiversity footprints. Only a minority recognizes how substantially food affects biodiversity. The food-related actions perceived as being the most impactful concern more local, organic, and less animal-based foods. Participants—especially those with high problem awareness—systematically overestimated Switzerland-specific biodiversity footprints. The magnitude of this pattern varies across foods, and only a few high-impact foods (e.g., cocoa, olive oil) are underestimated. We demonstrate that a simple educational intervention can alter perceptions of biodiversity footprints. Although we find no change in the general accuracy of footprint ratings, we observe an improvement in the ability to recognize high-impact foods.

Suggested Citation

  • Stoeckli, Sabrina & Merian, Sybilla & Holenweger, Geraldine & Nielsen, Kristian Steensen & Natter, Martin, 2024. "Public perceptions of food’s biodiversity footprints," OSF Preprints 2w4tc, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:osfxxx:2w4tc
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/2w4tc
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marta Cimatti & Rebecca Chaplin-Kramer & Moreno Di Marco, 2023. "The role of high-biodiversity regions in preserving Nature’s Contributions to People," Nature Sustainability, Nature, vol. 6(11), pages 1385-1393, November.
    2. Andy Purvis & Andy Hector, 2000. "Getting the measure of biodiversity," Nature, Nature, vol. 405(6783), pages 212-219, May.
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