Morocco understood early on that the CDM could provide a good opportunity to attract investments in cleaner technologies. Accordingly, Morocco was one of the first developing countries that ratified the Kyoto Protocol and designated a national authority in charge of the CDM (this was the Ministry in charge of Environment).
The Designated National Authority (DNA) is responsible for evaluating and approving national CDM projects. To assist it in fulfilling its functions, the authority has established a National CDM Council, which is a multidisciplinary advisory council. The DNA operates in accordance with internationally and nationally defined and known rules. It seeks to follow clear and transparent procedures. The DNA developed and adopted specific procedures for reviewing and approving national CDM projects. The first five projects were approved by DNA; two of these have been registered by the international CDM Executive Board, and the other three projects are undergoing review and registration.
In 2003, Morocco developed a national CDM strategy, and it has continued to refine the strategy through an ongoing process. The strategy entails three basic elements:
- The establishment of national organisational and institutional frameworks for CDM;
- The enhancement of the national capacities in this field; and
- The promotion of Moroccan CDM projects at the national and international levels.
The Moroccan CDM portfolio arose from the first mitigation studies that were included in Morocco’s First National Communication. These studies led to the elaboration of a National Action Plan for the Reduction of Green House Gas (GHG) Emissions. Thereafter, the CDM portfolio was improved and expanded, within the framework of continuous and focused efforts.
Morocco’s National Action Plan includes 25 projects that have been identified, taking into account a projected evolution of GHG emissions in Morocco by 2020. The Plan and the projects also account for national policies, programmes, and strategies, as well as Morocco’s specific context and conditions. The 25 projects were proposed by Government departments, public and private institutions involved, or they were set forth in close collaboration with their managerial staff and officers.
As of early 2006, the CDM portfolio includes many projects with a considerable potential for reducing GHG emissions over the next decade. These projects primarily relate to renewable energies, reducing wasting of energy, and promoting energy efficiency. The project’s portfolio is expected be expanded to cover new sectors such as forestry, industry, and agriculture.
For more information, contact Mr. Rachid Firadi firadirachid@yahoo.fr or dcop@minenv.gov.ma or Ms. Naïma Oumoussa scc@minenv.gov.ma