Let us imagine the consequences that a surplus of tourist flows, in the space of a single generation, will have on the environment if it is not controlled. a question so little discussed during ecotourism forums in Morocco at the expense of questions which very often relate to rural tourism, sometimes with a solidarity character, contributing to bringing new resources to the countryside but without real commitment to ecology or nature protection, nor to sustainable management of the natural environment.
To date, real ecotourism projects with a strong environmental component are very few in Morocco.
However, very interesting initiatives are currently emerging in rural tourism with the promotion of local products, creation of designations of origin, development of artisanal agricultural cooperatives, which will help to open the way to more ecological tourism with a search for quality and diversity.
By preaching sustainable tourism, its artisans should, first of all, regulate, from now on, the impact of tourism growth on the country. To ensure the renewal of environmental resources, the enhancement of heritage of all kinds, the maintenance of the architectural quality of sites and the control of pollution in places « consumed » by travelers who too often behave casually.
We would not take here the « Desert Rally organized in Morocco » as a polluting sporting event because this competition has not yet reached alarming proportions that significantly threaten the ecosystem. It is then a question of imposing respect for local traditions, under penalty of traumatizing inhabitants confronted with the brutal irruption, in their living environment, of foreign customs carried by the battering ram of money. To ensure the structure of jobs created by an activity which may only appear profitable. To disseminate income both through the spread of “seasons” and through the distribution of gains across the entire social spectrum.
In short, to ensure that this growth leads Morocco towards fair tourism, sustainable tourism!
It is therefore essential to assess the extent of the impacts of tourism on the environment as well as on the well-being and culture of host populations.
Furthermore, the growing water and energy needs of the tourism industry, largely due to swimming pools or hotel air conditioning, directly compete with the needs of local populations.
Environmental quality is therefore a factor of competitiveness.
Tourism development and environmental protection can indeed go hand in hand if we all believe in it!
Bassima JOUNAIDI 
