In a statement shared with Morocco’s Press Agency (MAP) on Wednesday, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Laila Benali, defended Morocco’s decision to import non-hazardous European waste.
Benali emphasized that Morocco follows strict regulations for waste importation, aligned with the Basel Convention—an international agreement ratified by Morocco to manage hazardous waste.
Waste regulators, “The Basel Convention,” published and approved in Morocco’s official bulletin on April 19, 2001, aims to control hazardous waste movement across borders.
Morocco’s domestic laws further ensure responsible waste management. Benali clarified that imported non-hazardous waste, including plastic, ferrous metals, and torn rubber tires, is recycled and utilized in industrial and energy sectors, contributing to sustainable development.
In 2016, Morocco granted 416 authorizations for importing non-hazardous waste for energy and industrial recovery. These materials produce sanitation pipes, drip irrigation systems, and plastic containers.
Benali’s statement seeks to clarify misconceptions and highlight the government’s commitment to transparency, sustainable practices, and a circular economy.