Conservation trust funds have been set up in many developing countries over the past decade as a way of providing funding for environmental protection. They take the form of a legally independent institution (i.e. outside the control of the government) that is managed by an autonomous board of directors. Many have a permanent endowment established by grants from the national government or international donor agencies. Conservation trust funds may also manage sinking funds created through debt-for-nature swaps or revolving funds financed through specially designated “user fees” or taxes that are earmarked for conservation. The main purpose of setting up a conservation trust fund is to provide long-term stable funding for national parks and other protected areas, or small grants to non-profit non-governmental organizations and community groups for projects aimed at conserving biodiversity and using natural resources more sustainable.