New Generation Agricultural Cooperatives: Towards a Sustainable Model Serving Ecology and Environmental Preservation

¹ Mohamed First University, Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology, Laboratory of Improvement of Agricultural Production, Biotechnology and Environment, Oujda, Morocco
² Mohamed First University, Superior School of Technology, Laboratory of Management and Development of Companies and Organizations, Oujda, Morocco
³ Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation Laboratory / Natural Resource Engineering and Environmental Impacts Team, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga BP 145, Khouribga, Morocco
⁴ Biotechnology, Environmental Technology and Valorization of Bio-resources team, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology Al-Hoceima, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: benjaafar.hasnae2000@gmail.com

Abstract

The ‘Green Generation 2020-2030’ strategy aims to transform the Moroccan agricultural sector by integrating modern, sustainable and inclusive practices, with an emphasis on the participation of young people and women in rural areas. This initiative is part of an approach to sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate challenges. New- generation agricultural cooperatives are at the heart of this transformation, adopting innovative practices such as regenerative agriculture, the circular economy and climate-smart technologies. Public policies play a key role in the success of these cooperatives, notably by facilitating access to funding and training and by supporting the use of digital tools to improve product management and marketing. Anchored in an ecological approach, new- generation cooperatives represent an effective model for sustainable development, combining agricultural innovation, social inclusion and the preservation of natural resources. Some agricultural cooperatives recycle agricultural by-products, such as olive pomace and margines, by converting them into fuel logs. As well as reducing agricultural waste and surface water and groundwater pollution, this environmentally-friendly approach also provides a renewable energy source with a low carbon footprint, thereby contributing to the energy transition. These cooperatives stand out for their democratic governance, adoption of modern technologies and strong local roots, all of which enhance their competitiveness while meeting local needs and protecting the environment.