Amidst growing concerns about importing non-hazardous waste, Morocco’s Ministry of Energy issued a strong rebuttal on Tuesday, categorically denying any wrongdoing.
The ministry emphasized that its policies and procedures for importing and processing waste strictly align with international standards and national environmental regulations.
The ministry said that importing non-hazardous waste is regulated by the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, which Morocco has ratified.
Domestically, the process is governed by Law No. 00-28 on waste management and its implementing texts, as well as Decree No. 2-17-587, which specifies the conditions and procedures for the import, export, and transit of waste.
Since 2016, 416 licenses have been granted to companies importing non-hazardous waste for energy recovery or industrial purposes.
The ministry said that Morocco primarily imports waste from European countries known for their high-quality waste sorting and treatment systems, ensuring that the imported material does not harm the environment or public health.
Morocco also imports a relatively small proportion of non-hazardous waste compared to other countries with similar economies.
According to the ministry’s statement, the licensing process for importing non-hazardous waste is rigorous and involves a detailed administrative procedure.
Applicants must provide physical and chemical analysis documents and technical data sheets and obtain opinions from ministries concerned with the waste’s intended use.
Licenses are only granted if there is a demonstrated need for the waste as a raw or complementary material in domestic industries and if it offers a viable economic return.
The ministry also stressed that using and recycling non-hazardous waste components require advanced equipment to monitor and control gaseous emissions generated during combustion. This ensures the protection of air quality and the overall environment.
The ministry said that the international trade of non-hazardous waste is highly competitive, with companies vying for opportunities in the growing circular economy.
Morocco benefits from this global market by importing plastic, ferrous metals, and shredded tires for recycling and use as raw or complementary materials in various industries, including producing pipes and plastic boxes.
According to the press release, waste valorization chains can potentially create over 9,500 direct and indirect jobs in the iron industry alone.
The practice can reduce Morocco’s energy bill by decreasing the need for imported fossil fuels.
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