Explaining Variations in the Subnational Implementation of Global Agreements: The Case of Ecuador and the Convention on Biological Diversity

Abstract

We conducted case studies in Ecuador to assess subnational governments’ implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and to identify factors linked with successful implementation. We anticipated resources to be the main limiting factor, yet the record of implementation is not as closely tied to the availability of financial and human resources as might be expected in a developing country. Governments, in diverse sociopolitical and economic contexts, do have alternatives to implement multilateral environmental agreements. The type of development leaders promote and the priority they grant to environmental issues determine the use of available resources. We also observed the significant role played by local, national, and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and funding agencies in circulating biodiversity messages and spurring the elaboration of policies as well as on the ground projects. This picture would suggest to enhance awareness-raising trainings and to explore further the role of collaboration between governments and NGOs at local scales.