Management of Solid Waste in Morocco

Abstract

Growth of Moroccan population and the increase in economical activities are tightly associated with the increase in consumption that generates increasing solid waste (SW) production. Recent surveys reveal that the volume of SW produced in Morocco has exceeded 6.8 million cubic tons (MCT), including industrial wastes (1.6 MCT/year). Among the total, 85% of SW is regularly collected mainly in urban zones and disposed off in landfills. Only 37% of the collected SW is disposed off in controlled landfills. The absence of generalized action of SW management has led to non-civic behaviors and deterioration of the environment. Efforts have been deployed to improve infrastructure and the adoption of positive strategies aiming at “a zero-waste society” through different national plans at administrative and legislative levels. Their implementation obeys the general law of environment and the adhesion to several international conventions, sensitization, and educational actions. Association of the private sector and NGO represents essential pillars to achieve the goal targeted. In 2006, the first Solid Waste Law was promulgated, and an integrated strategy that includes a legal and institutional framework, and allocation of financial resources was launched. It aims at develo** collection, treatment, sorting, storage, disposal, and recovery system, taking into account the specificities of the waste and the socioeconomical status of pickers.