Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding Waste in National Parks – Examining the efficacy of indirect management approaches to influence park visitor behavior
Lawhon B, Taff BD, Miller ZD. Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding Waste in National Parks – Examining the efficacy of indirect management approaches to influence park visitor behavior. Research Permit and Reporting System
Each year, over 100 million pounds of waste are generated in national parks by park operations, visitors, and other sources. This research examined the efficacy of data-driven messaging on visitor behavior by using treatment signage placed on waste and recycling infrastructure in frontcountry and campground sites in three national parks - YOSE, GRTE, and DENA. Results indicate that data-driven messages are effective at influencing waste disposal and recycling behavior park visitors.