Morocco: For an ecological visa in Morocco

Tourism at a crossroads

Tourism is now at a crossroads. On the one hand, it represents an indispensable economic windfall for many countries, including Morocco. On the other hand, it is putting increasing pressure on the environment, especially in destinations facing the effects of climate change. Faced with this major challenge, more and more countries are adopting measures to limit the impact of tourism and finance environmental actions. Since February 2024, Bali has imposed a tax of 9 euros on foreign travelers. In New Zealand, the entrance fee has tripled to 56 euros. Venice, a pioneer in tourist taxes in Europe, has set an access fee of 10 euros. Bhutan, on the other hand, applies a sustainability tax of USD 100 per day per visitor, with a discount for extended stays. Other iconic sites are following this same trend: the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul now imposes an entrance fee of 25 euros, while Amsterdam holds the European record with a tourist tax equivalent to 12.5% of the price of overnight stays. These initiatives aim above all to limit tourist numbers and to preserve the quality of life of the inhabitants. But they also illustrate an essential fact: tourism can no longer be thought of independently of its ecological footprint. Nobody likes the arrival of new taxes...

Contrasting international models

... especially when they are mandatory. Around the world, the effects of this tax are quite contrasting between destinations that can do without the tourist economy to favor the quality of life of their inhabitants, and those whose economic survival depends entirely on this activity.

Morocco facing the environmental emergency

Each year, Morocco welcomes several million visitors. While this activity is an undeniable lever for economic development, it also creates strong pressure on natural resources, especially in a context of persistent drought and increasing water stress. The establishment of an ecological stamp — a contribution fixed at 20 euros per tourist upon entry into the country — would make it possible to finance concrete initiatives in favor of the climate and the preservation of natural resources. This levy, which is relatively modest compared to the cost of a trip, will soon become the global norm. We must be prepared for this, because sooner or later tourists will have to assume their externalities, i.e. the negative impacts they generate.

A green fund for sustainable tourism

Tourism contributes significantly to pollution, in particular through the excessive consumption of bottled water and the production of waste, only a fraction of which is recycled. The establishment of a green fund would make it possible to finance concrete projects, such as:
— The recycling and valorization of plastic waste, in particular water bottles, in order to reduce pollution.
— Reforestation and the preservation of green spaces, essential to combat desertification.
— The installation of wastewater treatment plants in tourist infrastructures, promoting the reuse of water for irrigation and sanitation.
— The development of renewable energies, by encouraging hotels and restaurants to invest in solar energy and energy efficiency.

Transparent and essential governance

To be effective and accepted, this system must be framed by rigorous governance principles:

• Full transparency on the collection and use of funds, in order to avoid any suspicion of greenwashing.
• A strict framework for spending, to ensure that each Dirham really contributes to the ecological transition.
• Regular information for stakeholders, in particular citizens and tourism professionals.
• Harmonization of initiatives between the cities and regions concerned.
• Responsible communication with tourists, so that they understand the positive impact of their contribution.

A shared commitment to a sustainable future

This ecological stamp should not be perceived as a constraint, but as a mutual commitment between Morocco and its visitors to preserve an exceptional natural heritage. The country does not have to choose between economy and ecology: it must reconcile the two to build a future where tourism rhymes with sustainability. Through this approach, Morocco could position itself as a pioneer destination in terms of responsible tourism. Focusing on quality rather than quantity would not only preserve its natural resources, but also attract a public that is more concerned about its ecological footprint. The time is no longer for waiting, but for action. This ecological stamp would be a first step towards more virtuous tourism, reconciling economic prosperity and environmental preservation.