Which Mount Fuji climbers want trash cans? Predicting awareness of the ‘Leave No Trace’ third principle

One of the major concerns for mountainous Protected Area management is the disposal of trash triggered by the influx of visitors. Providing on-site waste collection facilities, such as trash cans, could encourage visitors to stop littering. However, providing such facilities poses logistical challenges especially in altitude destinations due to the collection costs and ethical concerns due to gaps in perception and social norms between site managers and visitors. This study uses a survey conducted in summer 2023 to examine the predictors that influence climbers' compliance with the third principle of the ‘Leave no Trace’ (LNT) code connected to trash disposal norms. Independent sample t-test and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to delineate differences in preferences for trash cans amongst the 353 respondents. Results revealed descriptive norms (climbing habits and prior awareness) and group identity (nationality) as significant predictors of climbers' compliance. Findings indicated a gap in LNT perception between Japanese, expat and inbound climbers, with domestic visitors tending to tolerate the lack of trash cans due to Japanese social norms, whereas international visitors indicated otherwise. Moreover, findings also showed a relationship between regular climbing habits and LNT compliance, with more experienced hikers and climbers manifesting higher awareness and compliance with LNT. The findings will facilitate improved LNT engagement, helping site managers to establish effective communication and promote possible alternatives (e.g. environmental education interventions) as part of a holistic waste management strategy at Mount Fuji and other mountainous frontcountry settings.

Management implications

Driven by the post-covid rebound in nature-based tourism demand, visitor influxes have inundated many mountainous destinations with additional trash. As Protected Areas increasingly use public education outreach programs such as ‘Leave no Trace’ (LNT) to mitigate visitors' trash-related norms, this study has implications for site managers:

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  Encouraging all climbers to engage in LNT practices by providing basic information prior to arrival along with on-site equipment to help collect litter (e.g. trash bags).

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  Actively targeting frontcountry visitor segments with lower awareness of and compliance with LNT practices, such as less-experienced and international climbers.

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  Conducting educational programs that raise awareness, interweave LNT code throughout the site management plan and disseminate the LNT philosophy across cultural norms.