Leila Benali: Circular Economy as a Core Lever for Environmental Sovereignty and Its Funding through Innovative Mechanisms
Leila Benali, the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, emphasized that the circular economy serves as a strategic tool to achieve environmental sovereignty, ensure the sustainability of natural resources, and promote social and territorial justice, in line with the aspirations of the new development model.
During the opening of the national conference on the circular economy in Salé, organized in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, and the Local Governments for Sustainability network, the minister stated that this meeting embodies Morocco’s direction under the leadership of King Mohammed VI to make the kingdom a continental model in environmental innovation and green transition.
Benali noted that the event represents a pivotal point for launching an extensive national discussion and establishing an ambitious roadmap for the circular economy, based on participatory approaches and drawing from best international practices. She underscored the importance of establishing a sustainable production and consumption ecosystem that focuses on waste reduction and the reintegration of resources into the economic cycle through valorization and remanufacturing.
The minister confirmed that due to legislative and institutional reforms, Morocco is now positioned to adopt an integrated circular economy system, which relies on the digital transformation of industries, encourages innovation in recycling, and develops smart sensing technologies for resource tracking, aimed at enhancing management efficiency and creating an effective digital circular economy.
She highlighted that organizing the conference in conjunction with World Environment Day reflects Morocco’s commitment to global shifts towards a fair green economy capable of addressing climate challenges and ensuring strategic security in the face of increasing environmental crises.
Benali pointed out that the national roadmap for the circular economy, which is currently being developed, will serve as a practical working platform to ensure policy alignment and coordinate the efforts of stakeholders at both the central and local levels. She noted that financing this path will be through innovative mechanisms that include support for startups operating in the fields of recycling and environmental valorization.
The minister called for comprehensive mobilization and effective engagement from all stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, civil society, and local communities, stating that the circular economy represents a real opportunity to create new jobs, reduce territorial disparities, and achieve environmental and social justice.
In conclusion, Benali affirmed that Morocco is steadily advancing towards implementing the new development model that positions green economy and climate innovation as essential pillars of development, urging for collective mobilization to ensure the success of this strategic initiative that enhances Morocco’s standing in global environmental transformations.
