# Explain how debt-for-nature swaps can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in economically developing countries.

> IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus) — A4.2 Conservation of biodiversity · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A debt-for-nature swap involves a portion of a developing country's foreign debt being cancelled or reduced in exchange for a commitment to invest in conservation.
2. The funds that would have been used for debt repayment are redirected into conservation programmes, such as establishing or managing protected areas / national parks / nature reserves.
3. This provides economic incentive / reduces the financial burden on developing countries, enabling them to protect biodiverse habitats that they might otherwise exploit for economic gain.
4. Protecting these habitats preserves species richness / prevents habitat loss / maintains ecosystem services, thereby directly contributing to the conservation of biodiversity.

## Key terms

- [debt-for-nature swap](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/debt-for-nature-swap)
- [biodiversity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/biodiversity)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-debt-for-nature-swaps-can-contribute-3b0e198f) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.