Morocco has announced a significant increase in its investment in treated wastewater reuse, allocating over 3 billion dirhams (approximately $300 million) to expand the country's water recycling capacity. The current volume of treated wastewater reuse stands at 52.6 million cubic meters per year, with golf courses being the largest consumer, using 20.5 million cubic meters annually.
The new investment aims to double the reuse capacity, addressing water scarcity challenges exacerbated by climate change and population growth. The initiative is part of Morocco's National Water Plan 2020-2050, which targets a 50% reuse rate of treated wastewater by 2030.
According to the Ministry of Equipment and Water, the funds will be used to upgrade existing treatment plants and build new infrastructure, particularly in agricultural regions. The plan also includes measures to improve water quality standards for safe reuse in irrigation and industrial processes.
Environmental experts have welcomed the move, noting that it could reduce pressure on freshwater resources and mitigate the impact of droughts. However, they emphasize the need for strict monitoring to ensure public health and environmental safety.
