- 21:10Al Omrane Expo for Moroccans Worldwide Makes a Stop in Amsterdam: Strengthening Ties with the Diaspora
- 17:45Diplomatic Engagement: Britain and China Seek Common Ground Amidst Tensions
- 17:20Morocco's Rural Education Overhaul: EIB, EU, and Government Launch €125.8 Million Initiative
- 17:05Hamas has announced that its leader, Yahya Sinwar, was killed in fighting with the Israeli army in Gaza
- 16:40Pregnant Teen's Rescue from Abandoned Well Uncovers Disturbing Allegations in Morocco
- 16:30Obama's Campaign Trail Return: A Personal Mission to Thwart Trump's Legacy
- 16:20Kenyan Politics in Turmoil: Vice President Gachagua Impeached on Corruption Charges
- 16:00The McCain Republicans: A Pivotal Force in Arizona's Political Landscape
- 15:10Middle East Tensions Escalate: Hamas Leader's Death Fuels Ongoing Conflict
Follow us on Facebook
Climate Change Threatens Morocco's Coastal Tourism: World Bank Warns of Significant Job Losses
Morocco's coastal tourism sector, a vital component of its blue economy, faces a stark challenge as climate change threatens to erode up to 32% of jobs by 2035, according to a recent World Bank report. The study, "Climate Change Impacts on the Blue Economy in Morocco: Prospects for Jobs in Coastal Tourism," paints a concerning picture for the North African nation's economy.
The report predicts that without immediate action to build climate resilience, tourist expenditures could plummet between 8% and 18% over the next decade. The accommodation and food service industries are expected to bear the brunt of these losses, potentially shedding over 32% of jobs in the most severe scenario.
Small enterprises within the sector are particularly vulnerable, often lacking the financial resources to weather significant economic shocks. The ripple effects of job losses in coastal tourism could extend beyond the immediate industry, potentially impacting female labor force participation, especially in hotels and restaurants.
Currently, coastal tourism provides employment for more than 300,000 people across various age groups in Morocco, representing approximately 30% of the country's total tourism sector. Key coastal tourism regions include Agadir, Tangier-Tetouan, and Casablanca, with the Souss-Massa region around Agadir accounting for 70% of coastal tourism demand.
To mitigate these potential losses, the World Bank recommends a fundamental shift in Morocco's tourism strategy. The report advocates moving away from the traditional "sea, sun, and sand" model towards a more sustainable and resilient approach. Suggestions include:
1. Developing ecotourism products
2. Incorporating climate resilience into new tourism infrastructure
3. Implementing nature-based solutions for coastal protection
4. Enhancing the capacity of tourism businesses to take climate action
The report emphasizes that investing in climate change mitigation and adaptation measures will lead to better development outcomes. A climate-resilient coastal tourism sector has the potential to support socioeconomic development, create new jobs, and drive economic growth.
The Moroccan government now has an opportunity to build resilience by integrating climate actions into its Tourism Strategic Roadmap 2023-2026. This proactive approach could help safeguard the sector against future climate-related challenges while positioning Morocco as a leader in sustainable tourism.
The World Bank's findings are intended to inform discussions with the Moroccan government on strengthening coastal tourism's resilience under the ongoing Blue Economy Program for Results framework. As Morocco navigates the complexities of climate change and economic development, the decisions made in the coming years will be crucial in shaping the future of its coastal communities and tourism industry.