Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to contribute to the understanding of the relationship of interorganizational alliances in debt-for-nature swaps (DNS). These international organizations, nongovernment organizations, professional and religious organizations, and civil society have come together to accomplish an objective affecting the global community. This study looks at DNS as a window into the relationship between man and nature and ecology and economics. At this time in history, this can be a pessimistic view of the interrelationship. It has only been in the last 35 years that ecology is no longer regarded as infinite, and the popular concept was "sustainable development." This study examines the interorganizational relationships and their ability to influence environmental policies internationally. The influence of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) is paramount to achieving success in environmental issues. Methodology. The mechanism to be explored in this study is the "debt-for-nature-swap" (DNS). In examining the literature of this field, it is noted that DNS is usually reviewed from the perspective of the financial involvement and debt conversion. While this is an important aspect, this study is conducted from a public administrator's viewpoint. That is, looking at the partnerships involved, interorganizational relationships, and a review of DNS actions completed in Central and South America, Caribbean, Africa, and Asia. Findings and Conclusion. The results are evaluated as a time series, from 1988 through 2003. By reviewing 24 completed DNSs over this time period, conclusions were evaluated regarding success of the projects and an analysis of the major players: Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy, and the World Wildlife Fund. Recommendations. It is recommended that follow-up studies be conducted to determine if the original conservation objective has been maintained. During the original DNS, no money was set aside for follow-up studies. In addition, population growth needs to be addressed by the NGOs since overpopulation seriously affects maintenance of an ecological balance.