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Morocco, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is facing wildfires that are wreaking havoc on its forest cover.
The wildfires in Morocco have inflicted severe damage on its forest cover, leading to the loss of countless hectares of pristine woodland.
Forests are not only vital carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, but they also support diverse flora and fauna, protect watersheds, and provide a livelihood for many communities. The destruction of these ecosystems continue to disrupt the delicate balance of nature and trigger a cascade of ecological consequences.
According to the country’s National Agency for Water and Forestry (ANEF), there have been more than 182 wildfires so far in 2023 totaling to over 1200 hectares of forest cover burnt. Just last weekend, approximately 25 hectares of the Rmilat forest that covers 300 hectares was burnt before being put out by firefighters.
The wildfires have caused a decline in biodiversity, threatening native plant and animal species that are already adapted to Morocco’s unique climate.
The destruction of habitats, such as those of endangered species like the Barbary macaque and the Moroccan Atlas cedar, puts these creatures at an even greater risk of extinction. Additionally, the loss of forest cover continues to weaken the land’s ability to retain water, leading to soil erosion, reduced water quality and increased vulnerability to floods.
The increase in wildfire frequency and intensity in Morocco can be linked to various factors, including rising global temperatures due to climate change. Higher temperatures have led to drier conditions, creating a favorable environment for wildfires to ignite and spread.
Human activities, such as agricultural practices, deforestation, and improper waste disposal also contribute to the ignition of wildfires.
Unregulated land use practices, urban expansion, and the encroachment of human settlements into natural areas further escalate the risk of wildfires. As populations grow and infrastructure expands, the potential for human-caused fires rises, adding to the challenges faced by Morocco’s already fragile ecosystems.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Morocco has taken proactive measures to mitigate the impact of wildfires and enhance the resilience of its forests.
The North African country has invested in modernizing its firefighting capabilities. This includes the use of the Canadair CL-415 plane that is well designed to fight wildfires.
Additionally, the country recently allocated $22 million for forest fire prevention and control to boost its fight against wildfires.
