Ecotourism in Morocco: Balancing Growth with Sustainability

Overtourism can be destructive and harmful to both the environment and local livelihoods, exacerbating the economic divide between regions. The rapid increase in international tourist arrivals—1.3 billion in 2023—signals a strong recovery for global tourism since the pandemic. However, this growth also brings challenges. With leisure tourism accounting for about 60% of the market, popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, the U.S., Japan, Thailand, and China are feeling the pressures of overtourism.

The Rise of Ecotourism

With climate change and a global push for sustainability, there is growing awareness about environmental conservation and demand for authentic, local experiences. Government initiatives and policies promoting sustainable practices are propelling the growth of ecotourism. Known for their stunning landscapes, conservation efforts, biodiversity, and extensive national parks, countries like New Zealand, Ecuador, and Costa Rica offer activities such as wildlife tours, hiking, and stays in sustainable lodging.

Morocco: A Jewel of Diverse Attractions

Morocco, with its historical cities, natural landscapes such as the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, and coastal areas, attracted around 13 million tourists in 2019. However, tourism development is largely concentrated in major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, creating an imbalance in job opportunities, infrastructure, and economic activities across regions. This uneven development hampers the preservation of traditional and cultural resources and skills as well as labor forces in these sectors.

Since the implementation of the "Morocco 2020 Vision" strategy, Morocco has been actively promoting sustainable tourism and the digitization of its culture and traditions through various government-led initiatives. The goal was to attract 20 million tourists annually by 2020 while also prioritizing environmental and cultural preservation. A significant step in this direction was the introduction of the Green Key eco-label, which recognizes accommodations that adhere to strict environmental criteria and motivates hotels and lodges to embrace sustainable measures like minimizing water and energy usage and supporting local culture.

Morocco has also launched the "Digital Morocco 2020" plan, which aims to digitize cultural heritage sites and promote the country's traditions through modern technology. Projects under this plan include virtual tours of historical sites, digital archives of cultural artifacts, and interactive educational platforms that provide in-depth information about Morocco's rich heritage. The creation of protected areas, such as national parks and biosphere reserves, further demonstrate Morocco's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. These efforts not only help preserve Morocco's natural and cultural resources but also enhance the tourist experience, making the country a more attractive destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Embracing Innovation: The PaasCoop Project

GDLY is proud to partner with PaaSCoop in contributing to Morocco's sustainability goals. Focusing on economic inclusivity, social responsibility, and eco-friendly action, this initiative aims to develop a locally and globally connected tourism framework. By leveraging digitization and innovative solutions, the PaasCoop project seeks to support diverse local economies and offer global visitors opportunities for insightful and dynamic cultural exploration.

The values and practices of ecotourism not only protect the environment and support local communities, but also ensure the longevity and sustainability of the tourism industry itself by ensuring the reason and beauty of travel remain to entice and be enjoyed. Initiatives like the PaasCoop project highlight the potential for innovation and collaboration in creating a vibrant, sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits both the planet and the people. By embracing sustainable practices and promoting a more inclusive approach, top tourist destinations like Morocco can continue to thrive in their popularity while preserving their unique cultural and natural heritage.