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Environment

Morocco's Waste Import Controversy: Ministry Defends 2.5 Million Ton Deal Amid Growing Public Concern

Wednesday 28 August 2024 - 17:35

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The debate over Morocco's decision to import 2.5 million tons of European waste has intensified, with the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development vigorously defending its controversial stance. The importation, which includes old tires and household waste, has sparked significant public backlash and criticism from environmental groups and opposition parties.

Recently, the Ministry has faced sharp criticism following its approval for importing over 2.5 million tons of waste from various European countries. This decision has ignited a heated debate, with numerous environmental organizations and political opponents questioning the move. Critics argue that this practice contradicts Morocco’s constitutional right to a healthy environment and undermines the country’s environmental protection and sustainable development strategies.

According to the Ministry, the importation of non-hazardous waste is a regulated procedure aimed at recycling and industrial recovery. Since 2016, around 416 permits have been issued to companies under this practice. The Ministry asserts that this is a common practice intended to convert waste into energy or other useful industrial products.

However, local environmental groups, including the North Morocco Environmental Assembly and the Solidarity and Cooperation Space in the Eastern Region, have voiced strong objections. In a joint statement, they condemned the importation decision as incompatible with Morocco's constitutional and legal commitments to environmental protection. Activist Mohamed Benata, who coordinates the North Morocco Environmental Assembly and heads the Solidarity and Cooperation Space, has called on Minister Leila Benali to reverse the decision. The activists highlight that Morocco's recycling capacity is limited, handling less than 10% of domestic waste, and warn of the environmental hazards posed by burning rubber tires.

In response to the criticism, the Ministry issued a statement addressing what it termed as “misleading and erroneous information” circulating in the media. The Ministry emphasized that the importation adheres to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes, which Morocco has ratified. They also noted compliance with Law 28-00 on waste management and its implementing regulations.

The Ministry assured the public that the imported waste is non-hazardous and that European countries, known for their stringent waste sorting and treatment systems, are the sources of the waste. They outlined a rigorous administrative process for granting import permits, which includes comprehensive analysis and technical documentation to ensure environmental safety.

Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted the economic and social benefits of this importation, describing it as a profitable venture that supports Morocco’s green and circular economy. They project the creation of over 9,500 jobs in the metal industry and aim to generate 60,000 jobs by 2030 through waste recovery operations.

Despite these assurances, public concern persists. Many citizens worry that Morocco is becoming a dumping ground for Europe’s waste. The ongoing controversy echoes a similar incident from 2016, when a shipment of Italian waste sparked outrage and questioned Morocco's environmental commitments during the COP22 climate conference.

As the debate continues, the Ministry plans to import waste from various European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Britain, Sweden, and Norway. The controversy surrounding these imports remains a significant issue, challenging Morocco’s environmental policies and public trust.