Responsible environmental behavior intention of travelers on ecotourism sites

Abstract

The purpose -This research aims to investigate responsible environmental behavior intention of travelers formed upon visiting ecotourism sites in Indonesia. Nowadays, ecotourism has become a popular concept of tourism in Indonesia due to its rich potential of natural and cultural resources. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that not all travelers visiting ecotourism objects demonstrate positive environmental behavior. Several previous studies have already revealed that travelers' behavior may alter after visiting tourism sites. Unfortunately, there has not been much discussion on travelers' positive behavior formed after visiting an ecotourism site. In this research, four variables regarded as significant in shaping responsible environmental behavior intention included destination image, trip quality, perceived value, and satisfaction. Design/Methodology -This research applied a survey method. The research sample consisted of travelers who had visited ecotourism sites in Indonesia, while the number of respondents amounted to 210 travelers. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was selected as the technique of analysis. Finding -This research confirmed that five proposed hypotheses were supported. Hence, this study clearly contributes to the development of the theory and concept of ecotourism useful for practitioners associated with ecotourism activities. Originality of the research -Research on ecotourism in developing countries has not been much done. Similarly, the research on ecotourism related to intention to behave environmentally responsible is still not much to investigate, while the ecotorurism activities in Indonesia began in earnest. Therefore, research is expected to contribute ideas and implementation of ecotourism in developing countries.

Will the Future Be Greener? The Environmental Behavioral Intentions of University Tourism Students

“…It is challenging for tourism enterprises to promote sustainable tourism and ecotourism because irresponsible visitor behaviors are seen everywhere [11]. Handriana and Ambara indicated that ecotourism or sustainable tourism should minimize natural and cultural environment destruction through people's environmentally responsible behaviors, and show respect for and return profits to local communities [12]. Based on previous research, tourism is often highly dependent on the natural and cultural environments of destinations.…”

Strategies for Developing Mangrove Ecotourism in Riau Province, Indonesia

“…In addition to enjoying various attractions, they also need to get enlightenment about ecosystem education such as ways of conservation, various flora and fauna, and management system. More specifically, the notion of ecotourism as explained by The Ecotourism Society is a form of travel to natural areas that is performed with the aim of conserving the environment and preserving the lives and welfare of the local population (Handriana & Ambara, 2016). Thus, a tourist trip to the object of ecotourism must have a role in conserving nature while contributing to the prosperity of the community living around the area.…”

The perceived value and profile of protected areas visitors: A case study of the Guayas province, Ecuador

“…On the other hand, undoubtedly one of the main attractions that trigger tourism activity are natural resources, but the incessant increase in the flows of national and international tourists each year can lead to major changes in ecosystems (Si-Shyun, 2018). This can represent a high cost for the societies, cultures and host environments, due to the possible environmental destruction that would put their tourism heritage at risk which represents a cause of great concern for all sectors of the community (i.e., governments, professionals, local community, as well as a topic of interest to academics and researchers), who agree that in order for tourism to be maintained in a sustained manner, preventive or remedial measures should be considered to avoid a major negative impact (Briassoulis & Van Der, 2013;Tanti & Raya, 2016).…”