From supporting to practising leave no trace: an explanation from the theory of reasoned action and the social exchange theory

This study proposes an integrated model that incorporates the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and the social exchange theory (SET) to investigate the Leave No Trace (LNT) behaviour of hikers in Hong Kong. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was performed to analyse the data of a voluntary survey (n = 374) conducted from December 2019 to June 2020. The results indicate that attitude and subjective norm significantly control intention, which eventually affect LNT participation, as suggested by the TRA. Perceived benefit positively influences attitude, which affects support for LNT intervention, leading to LNT intention, participation, and intensity, as predicted by the SET. LNT participation is significantly correlated with LNT intensity. This study contributes to the knowledge body by offering a new perspective on LNT behaviour of visitors to protected areas. This study also provides a reference for Hong Kong and other cities around the world in managing the sustainability of protected areas.