Place Attachment, Awareness of Environmental Responsibility and Pro-Environmental Behaviour of Visitors in Protected Natural Areas

Published in: Tourism Planning & Development (2024)
DOI: 10.1080/21568316.2024.2353596

Overview

Why do visitors act in environmentally responsible ways when exploring protected natural areas? My latest co-authored research examines the psychological drivers of pro-environmental behavior at Biokovo Nature Park, Croatia.

Using the Norm Activation Model (NAM) as a framework, this study explores how emotional (place attachment) and cognitive (awareness of environmental responsibility) connections with nature influence sustainable actions. The findings offer valuable insights for managers of protected areas, providing tools to foster deeper environmental engagement among visitors.

Key Findings

  1. Place Attachment as a Driver:
    Visitors with strong emotional ties to a destination are more likely to feel a sense of environmental responsibility.
  2. Awareness as a Mediator:
    • Place attachment alone does not guarantee pro-environmental behavior.
    • Awareness of Environmental Responsibility bridges the gap between emotional connection and action, ensuring behavior aligns with conservation goals.
  3. Behavioral Outcomes:
    • The interplay of place attachment and environmental awareness significantly boosts pro-environmental behavior.
    • Neglecting the mediating role of awareness could overestimate the direct influence of place attachment.

Why This Matters

Protected areas like Biokovo Nature Park are facing increasing environmental pressures from tourism. This research highlights:

  • The Role of Emotional Bonds: Leveraging visitors’ connection to nature can inspire sustainable actions.
  • Psychological Pathways: Understanding how awareness mediates behavior provides actionable insights for conservation strategies.
  • Enhanced Management Approaches: Prioritizing visitor engagement and responsibility awareness ensures long-term sustainability.

Practical Implications

This study provides clear recommendations for protected area managers and policymakers:

  • Environmental Education Campaigns: Enhance visitor awareness of environmental responsibility to strengthen sustainable behavior.
  • Visitor Engagement Initiatives: Build emotional connections through storytelling, interpretive programs, and interactive experiences.
  • Targeted Management Strategies: Tailor interventions to deepen place attachment and foster a sense of responsibility.

Keywords

Place attachment, environmental responsibility, pro-environmental behavior, protected areas, norm activation model, Croatia.

How to Cite This Research

If you reference this work, please use the following citation:

Mandić, A., Knight, D. W., Vuković, M., & Thomsen, B. (2024). Place Attachment, Awareness of Environmental Responsibility and Pro-Environmental Behaviour of Visitors in Protected Natural Areas. Tourism Planning & Development, 1–26.
https://doi.org/10.1080/21568316.2024.2353596

Read the Full Paper

Access the complete study here: Taylor & Francis Online

Let’s Collaborate

How can place attachment and awareness of responsibility transform conservation efforts in protected areas? Share your ideas and experiences to contribute to a more sustainable tourism future!