Abstract
Major earthquakes have occurred every 100 to 150 years in the Tōkai region of Japan. In anticipation of the next one, authorities recommend the stockpiling of food at home. Many households have not done so, however. To understand why, we surveyed households in Shizuoka City in 2011. A lack of understanding and difficulties in implementing plans explain why many households have not started. Difficulties in managing stockpiles and in making room for storage explain why other households have stopped. Further, food quality affects the costs and benefits of stockpiling food. To reduce disincentives and improve compliance, government, private industry, and NGOs must disseminate advice on how to stockpile and manage food. Improving emergency measures and explaining them to households is an effective way to improve food stockpiling.
