Morocco has signed a deal to turn its industrial areas into eco-friendly parks. The programme, called GEIPP II, aims to make factories more sustainable, efficient, and better prepared for climate challenges.
The agreement was signed on Monday by Industry Minister Ryad Mezzour, Swiss Ambassador Valentin Zellweger, and UNIDO representative Sanae Lahlou. The project will run from 2026 to 2028 with a budget of three million Swiss francs.
The programme focuses on using resources more efficiently, reducing waste and CO2 emissions, and encouraging factories to work together so one’s waste can be another’s resource. It also aims to create jobs and improve conditions for workers.
It builds on previous pilot projects in Morocco and lessons from countries like Colombia, Peru, Ukraine, Vietnam, and South Africa. The move also helps Moroccan exporters prepare for new EU carbon rules that could otherwise make their goods more expensive in Europe.
Minister Mezzour said the project supports cleaner production and tracking carbon footprints to meet international standards. Ambassador Zellweger said it will boost competitiveness and jobs, while Sanae Lahlou highlighted the focus on cutting waste, saving energy, and fostering cooperation between companies.
The programme will also strengthen Morocco’s eco-industrial network, working with partners such as the World Bank and GIZ. Earlier phases have already shown savings in water and energy in zones like Ait Melloul and Atlantic Free Zone.
Overall, Morocco aims to modernise its 150 industrial zones, turning them into efficient, climate-ready spaces that attract foreign investment.
