Morocco’s experience in sustainable construction was highlighted during a panel organized on Thursday in Marrakech, as part of the 2nd edition of Gitex Africa Morocco (May 29-31). Under the theme “The transition to a circular economy and the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure”, this meeting allowed the panelists to highlight the significant progress made in the field of sustainable construction in Morocco, highlighting its crucial role in the fight against climate change and the promotion of sustainable development. Participants also highlighted the growing importance of education and public awareness on sustainable construction issues, in order to stimulate increased demand for green and eco-responsible buildings. Amine Benchekroun, vice-president of the “Secure Power” Division at Schneider Electric, highlighted the numerous benefits of sustainable construction, particularly in terms of reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and creating green jobs. “Morocco is ranked 7th best prepared country globally for climate change in the Climate Change Performance Index 2022, which testifies to the country’s efforts in terms of transition to a circular economy,” he argued. For her part, Jamila Mouline, head of the technical and sustainable development department at the National Agency for Public Facilities (ANEP), highlighted ANEP’s crucial approach to sustainable construction in the current Moroccan context. She stressed that sustainable construction is no longer a choice but “a necessity”, responding to environmental challenges and the requirements of Morocco’s national sustainable development strategy, demanding exemplary administrative buildings. She also affirmed that in the absence of a unified national approach, ANEP has identified several priority themes to ensure the sustainability of public facilities. She continued, this involves bioclimatic architecture, which optimizes the use of natural resources and reduces energy needs, energy efficiency, aiming to minimize energy consumption and water efficiency, for rational use of water. It also involves the use of local materials, which support the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint, as well as the efficient and sustainable management of assets, guaranteeing the sustainability and resilience of public infrastructure. Gitex Africa 2024, which saw the participation of more than 1,500 exhibitors representing more than 130 countries, positions itself as a hub promoting exchanges on the latest technological developments.
