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Rabat– Morocco ranked 136th out of 180 countries in the 2024 edition of the Nature Conservation Index (NCI), a global assessment that evaluates nations’ commitment to environmental protection.
The index, published annually by the environmental platform “BIODB,” assesses countries based on four key sub-indicators, focusing on the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity.
In the Land Management category, Morocco secured 68th place with a score of 59, reflecting its efforts in managing its diverse forest ecosystems, which include Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and scrublands.
These ecosystems cover large parts of the country and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Key species such as cork oak, olive, and carob trees thrive in these areas, which also provide habitats for animals like the Barbary gazelle, wild boar, and the now-extinct Barbary leopard.
The report highlights Ifrane National Park, located in the Middle Atlas, as a vital area for biodiversity, particularly for its dense cedar forests that serve as a sanctuary for the endangered Barbary macaque.
However, Morocco’s ecosystems face increasing threats from human activities. The report points to sand mining, excessive water extraction, and unsustainable agricultural practices as major drivers of land degradation.
Coastal regions face strain from urban development, pollution, and overfishing, while the Middle Atlas suffers habitat fragmentation from rapid urbanization.
Climate change is exacerbating these challenges, with rising temperatures, reduced rainfall, and more frequent droughts negatively impacting both ecosystems and agricultural productivity. These environmental pressures are pushing Morocco’s natural resources to their limits.
In response, Morocco has invested heavily in climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. The country has developed a network of protected areas, including national parks, nature reserves, and marine conservation zones, in an effort to safeguard its land and marine ecosystems. However, these protected areas often face pressure from ongoing human activities and the accelerating impacts of climate change.
The NCI’s Land Management sub-indicator, which assesses how countries manage resources through agricultural practices, urban planning, and conservation, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s ongoing efforts to balance development with environmental stewardship.
Despite the challenges, the country continues to make strides in environmental protection, though more work is needed to address the growing threats.
