SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION PRACTICES OF INDIGENT HOUSEHOLDS IN BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO, LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA BEFORE AND DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, the global production and supply chain systems have been disrupted affecting the consumption and waste management habits of households. This study investigates the sustainable consumption practices of indigent households in Barangay San Antonio, Los Baños, Laguna before and during the COVID 19 pandemic. 82 household heads and three key informants participated in the study, both using a blended approach—limited face to face and online (Google Forms and Google Meet). Data was analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Participant observation was also used to deepen the qualitative analysis. The results revealed that indigent households in the Barangay have high household size yet living below the poverty threshold. This affected the changes in their food consumption and waste management practices. The survey showed that household consumption and waste management practices have improved during the pandemic; however, the key informants believed that more wastes were generated during the pandemic due to online food deliveries. Factors such as values, attitudes, and education/knowledge were perceived to have influenced these changes in household consumption and waste management practices. These findings are relevant contributions to advance responsible consumption and production, especially in the context of indigent households in the Philippines.