Forum "REACT" in Rabat Highlights the Importance of Carbon Removal and Modernizing Industrial Infrastructure for Sustainability
Riyad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasized during the opening of the second edition of the "REACT – Sustainable Industry Forum Meeting: Rethink Carbon Impact" in Rabat that carbon removal is not limited to the energy sector but also involves reducing non-energy footprints through resource cycles, water efficiency, and rational utilization of raw materials. He stated these are essential drivers for enhancing industrial competitiveness.
The minister confirmed that Morocco now has ample energy at competitive prices, presenting an opportunity for a profound transformation extending into industry, food security, and water resource management. However, he noted that the main challenge lies in the limitations of the electrical infrastructure, necessitating focused investment efforts in this area.
Mohamed Ouhamud, acting secretary general of the Energy Transition sector, explained that decarbonization in the industrial sector is a ministry priority in partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Trade. He referred to an agreement signed under the government’s leadership aimed at enabling companies to access low-carbon energy at competitive rates.
Ouhamud highlighted that the strategy relies on expanding access to renewable energy and improving energy efficiency by 20% by 2030, while utilizing natural gas as a flexible energy source. He added that green hydrogen is a crucial element for deep decarbonization of the industrial fabric.
Hikmat Al-Hadri, founder of "REACT" and CEO of "H2O Hub," remarked that the transition towards sustainability requires innovation, built on dialogue, trust, cooperation, and collective intelligence. She stressed that today’s challenge is turning ideas into tangible actions and having a real impact through innovation.
The forum was held under the theme "Paving the Way: Strategies and Commitments for a Carbon-Free Industry," featuring several stakeholders, including Younes Skouri, Minister of Economic Integration, Small Enterprises, Employment, and Skills, and Mohamed Fekrate, Chairman of the Board of Agricultural Credit of Morocco.
Organized by "H2O Hub" under the supervision of the Ministries of Industry and Trade and Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the forum served as a platform for discussion, cooperation, and experience exchange among businesses, institutions, researchers, and financial stakeholders, aiming to innovate sustainable and competitive industrial solutions.
