How does outdoor recreation influence participants’ intentions to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors? A case study of rafting activities

The importance of sustainability has gained increasing attention on both global and local scales. Outdoor recreational activities provide not only physical and mental health benefits but promote environmental conservation by encouraging environmentally responsible behaviors (ERB). Participation in such activities deepens recreationists’ connection to the environment, cultivating environmental values, norms, and attitudes that lead to ERB. This study examines how rafting participants become more environmentally conscious through engagement in rafting activities. Data were collected from 247 recreationists during river rafting trips on the Yoshino River in Japan. The study explores the relationship between individuals’ connectedness to nature and their ERB intentions. Findings show that environmental values, personal norms, and affective attitudes developed during rafting trips are significantly linked to ERB intentions, which influence actual ERB in activity-specific contexts and daily life. This study emphasizes fostering a connection to nature to encourage ERB and support environmental sustainability.