Abstract for: Which Rebound Mechanisms Matter Most? A Multi-level System Dynamics Analysis of Food-sharing Platforms

Food-sharing platforms are seen as promising tools for reducting food waste. However, their impact remains uncertain as rebound effects may undermine intended benefits. These effects arise from underlying rebound mechanisms—feedback processes that can interact and cascade across system levels. Yet their relative importance over time remains unclear. This study examines how multiple mechanisms shape the dynamic outcomes of food‑sharing platforms. This study develops a quantitative System Dynamics model to investigate the temporal interactions and relative strengths of rebound mechanisms in a food‑sharing platform, capturing how they interact and cascade across the system and providing insights into their relative importance in this specific context. The modelling process highlights that rebound mechanisms operate as interconnected feedback processes rather than isolated effects. We gather insights on which rebound mechanisms are more influential in specific contexts. Identifying dominant loops reveals potential leverage points, improving policy analysis. Grammarly used for improving readability.