The Coca-Cola System in Morocco announces the launch of the project “Unite Wetlands Guardians,” in partnership with Living Planet Morocco (LPM) and under the direction of the Global Water Challenge (GWC). This initiative aims to restore fragile ecosystems and enhance water resilience while addressing water-related challenges in the most vulnerable areas to climate change, particularly in the Oum Er-Rbia basin.
As the country’s second-longest river, the Oum Er-Rbia serves as a vital pillar for local communities and the water supply for cities such as Casablanca, Settat, Berrechid, and Marrakech, thanks to water transfers to the Tensift and Bouregreg basins.
This project is part of the Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, launched in 2024, and aligns with Coca-Cola’s global strategy to return 100% of the water used in its beverages. It combines nature-based solutions, access to water, and watershed preservation.
The deployment will focus on six priority sub-basins of the Oum Er-Rbia, identified for their vulnerability and strategic role in national water security. Three main objectives have been set:
- Restore over 1,200 hectares of wetlands to revitalize biodiversity and enhance regional water resilience.
- Optimize irrigation efficiency in key agricultural areas to promote sustainable water use.
- Train and empower over 1,500 residents of rural communities to better cope with the impacts of climate change.
“This project illustrates the strength of collaboration to create sustainable and impactful solutions,” says Yousra Madani, President of Living Planet Morocco. “By combining community initiatives, nature-based approaches, and advanced monitoring tools, we are building a model that can inspire global solutions.”
Farid Benchekroun, General Director of Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company Morocco, adds: “Alongside our partners, we are working to tackle Morocco’s environmental challenges for a tangible and lasting impact.”
Charbel El-Beyrouthy, General Director of Coca-Cola in Morocco, concludes: “The company is committed to protecting local water resources and strengthening the climate resilience of the communities where it operates.”