Pro-environmental behavioural intention towards ecotourism: integration of the theory of planned behaviour and theory of interpersonal behaviour

This study identifies the factors influencing pro-environmental behavioural intention (PEBI) among Chinese domestic tourists at ecotourism destinations. The framework of this study was constructed by integrating the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Theory of Interpersonal Behaviour. Using purposive sampling techniques, 430 surveys were obtained between January and February 2022. The results indicated that perceived ecotourism usefulness, publicity and education, policies and regulations, infrastructure, and perceived behavioural control have significant positive effects. In contrast, risk has a significant negative effect on PEBI. None of the control variables (i.e. gender, age, and education level) showed a significant effect in the model. The integrated conceptual model developed in this study contributes to the existing literature, formulating potential policies and measures to promote PEBI and the creation of high-quality ecotourism destinations that can enhance sustainable ecotourism development.