Blue economy and green hydrogen are essential pillars of the sustainable development strategy in Morocco, a country with considerable potential in these areas, said Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, on Friday in Casablanca.
The Kingdom is thus called to make the most of its assets, notably its vast coastline, its exclusive economic zone of 1.2 million square kilometers, its abundant fishery resources, and its renowned ports, he emphasized in a speech delivered on his behalf at the opening of the scientific conferences of the Hassania School of Public Works (EHTP), organized on the occasion of the graduation ceremony of the 50th class (2023-2024).
Mr. Baraka noted in this context that this maritime wealth significantly contributes to the gross domestic product (3%) and provides jobs for several hundred thousand people, which has led Morocco to launch various initiatives at the national, regional, and local levels to protect and enhance its maritime spaces.
Regarding green hydrogen, the minister explained that the Kingdom has become, in recent years, a regional and continental leader in the field of renewable energies, and aspires to play an international leadership role in the green hydrogen economy.
Morocco, he continued, has taken a new step by publishing last March a first “Morocco Offer” for the development of green hydrogen capacities on its territory, thus setting the criteria that national and international investors must meet to develop this sector.
For his part, the director of the EHTP, Jaouad Boutahar, affirmed that Morocco indeed has exceptional potential in terms of blue economy, adding that these natural resources constitute an environmental wealth and a lever for the economic and social development of the country.
He emphasized that the abundant marine resources, ports, and desalination plants testify to the commitment to exploit these resources sustainably and efficiently.
Under the theme “Blue Economy and Green Hydrogen: Perspectives and Opportunities for Sustainable Development in Morocco,” this EHTP forum saw the participation of internationally renowned experts, government representatives, and industrial stakeholders.