Abstract

In this chapter we show how, if managed effectively, participation in some sports can cultivate a deeper environmental identity and pro-environmental behaviors. However, we argue that traditional sport will only be able to contribute to the development of an enhanced environmental identity if fundamental characteristics are changed. In the end, this might prove impossible. Instead, we call for a focus on outdoor and adventure sport (OAS) as an appropriate medium for the development of a deeper environmental identity. To do this we invoke an ecological dynamics perspective on sport and sport participation with its focus on the individual–environment relationship as it provides a principled framework for managing and implementing sport participation and the creation of a deeper environmental identity. We use this model to show how OAS might be designed to enhance environmental identity and pro-environmental behaviors.