Economic dynamics, sustainability of fisheries resources and environment protection: An analysis of Sahara coastal cities in Morocco

Institut National d’aménagement et d’urbanisme, GRDT, 10000 Rabat, Maroc

Abstract

The economic dynamic in Morocco’s Saharan coastal cities is focused on sea fishing. Nevertheless, while this activity plays an important role in the development of these areas, it also exposes them to the risks of overexploitation of fisheries resources and pollution, which are exacerbated by the effects of climate change. The aim of the present work is to analyze the correlation between the economic dynamics of Saharan coastal cities and the sustainability of fisheries resources. To realize this objective, we carried out an empirical study using a mixed quantitative and qualitative approach in Boujdour city from southern Morocco. The results showed that citizen participation and commitment are low. Also, the essential assets to face the challenges of sustainability and to support the introduction of mechanisms for accountable governance, integrated, and concerted management of fisheries resources, to pool the opportunities for innovation in green energy available in the region and to improve the efficiency of fishing activities, the promotion of integrative and inclusive territorial development and the protection of the environment.