Poll reveals concerned views on environmental issues among Moroccans

About 64% of Moroccans see pollution as a significant concern, while only 10% consider it inconsequential, as per an Afrobarometer survey that analyzed Moroccans’ relationship with environmental and climate issues.

30% of Moroccans prioritize “sanitation and waste management” as the paramount environmental issue, with another 22% emphasizing the importance of “air pollution.” Approximately 16% express concern about water resource pollution.

The survey highlights a divided stance among Moroccans regarding prioritizing environmental protection over economic benefits. While 37% believe the government should focus on creating more jobs and raising individual incomes first, 39% argue that environmental issues should take precedence, even at the cost of job creation and citizens’ daily needs.

Regarding plastic bags and their environmental impact, roughly 62% of Moroccans identify these bags as a primary source of environmental pollution, contrasting with approximately 30% who believe they pose no threat.

Respondents’ opinions on who holds responsibility for curbing pollution differ: 43% attribute responsibility to the central government, 23% to local authorities, and 17% to citizens themselves. However, around 62% insist that the government should exert more effort to minimize pollution in the country.

Additionally, 43% of Moroccans commend the government’s response and policies concerning environmental protection and pollution control.

Figures from the survey indicate that 83% of Moroccans support reorganizing natural resource extraction and exploration activities by the government to mitigate their negative effects on the environment, aiming for a balance between economic and environmental aspects.

Citing data from the High Commission for Planning and the World Health Organization, the survey’s source highlights alarming statistics: in 2019, 28 out of every 100,000 individuals died due to air pollution in Morocco, while 5 out of 100,000 succumbed to water pollution. Environmental degradation siphons off around 3.5% of the country’s GDP.

The report acknowledges Morocco’s initiation of reforms, implementation of measures, and launch of initiatives toward a green and comprehensive economy, aiming for wealth creation, development, and natural resource protection.

The Rabat-based source underscores major projects and strategies, including the National Strategy for Sustainable Development and the new development model, framing a multidimensional developmental approach considering natural resource sustainability for future generations.