Speaking at a “Leadership Dialogue” session, as part of the 2nd session of the 5th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), the Moroccan minister indicated that Morocco has implemented important measures, as part of the implementation of the National Sustainable Development Strategy, which aims for a transition to a green and inclusive economy by 2030, explaining that it is about valuing nature and natural resources.
These measures concern the strengthening of the legal framework, assured Ms. Benali, during this Dialogue which took place under the theme “Strengthening action in favor of nature to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals”, explaining that this includes in particular the promulgation of Law No. 77-15 on the ban on plastic bags, Law No. 81-12 on the coastline and the amendment of Law No. 28-00 on waste management to integrate the principle of extended producer responsibility.
Similarly, an ecotax on plastic was introduced more than 10 years ago in Morocco, in order to encourage recycling and the recovery of plastic waste, continued the government official, adding that a fund has been set up to support the reconversion of companies specializing in plastic bags.
On the operational level, and in parallel with the waste management and recovery programs already underway, the “Plastic-Free Coastline” program defines the intervention measures to reduce marine pollution by plastic, she said, explaining that this plan prioritizes the prevention and reduction at source of this waste, through the implementation of circular economy models and the promotion of the use of ecological alternatives.
Morocco has also undertaken significant efforts in terms of awareness-raising, noted the minister, indicating that programs have been launched in all regions of the Kingdom, in order to mobilize the population and the various stakeholders on the issue of plastic pollution, with a view to triggering changes in behavior and more sustainable practices.
These programs and policies have enabled Morocco to make significant progress in the fight against plastic pollution, she said.
Furthermore, the government official noted that international cooperation is essential to address this cross-border problem, which she described as a “major challenge for humanity” that presents real threats to the environment and marine and coastal ecosystems, on which many sectors depend, including tourism.
An effective policy in this area depends on innovative solutions at several levels, particularly in terms of approaches, technology, governance, but above all in terms of transparency and data sharing, the minister said, also stressing the imperative of active involvement of all stakeholders and the combination of political, economic and operational instruments of public authorities, the private sector and civil society.
The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development represents Morocco at the work of the 2nd session of the 5th United Nations General Assembly for the Environment, which is being held in Nairobi from February 28 to March 2.
Under the theme “Strengthening Nature-Based Actions to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” UNEA 5.2 addresses several environmental concerns, such as marine litter, nature-based solutions, green recovery and chemical waste management.
2024-08-25 08:31:29