Casablanca Launches Its Massive Waste Management and Valorization Center
On May 8, 2026, the city of Casablanca officially embarked on a groundbreaking environmental initiative with the approval of a substantial budget for its new Waste Management and Valorization Center. This ambitious project, set to occupy a sprawling 260-hectare site in Médiouna, aims to process up to 4,000 tons of household waste each day. The center is not just about waste disposal; it is designed to generate electricity that will meet 30% of the city's public lighting needs, showcasing a significant step towards sustainable urban development.
The Casablanca-Settat Region has committed an initial funding of 68 million Moroccan Dirhams (approximately $7 million) as part of a larger financial agreement totaling 250 million Dirhams (around $25 million). This investment is part of a grander scheme estimated at 14 billion Dirhams (approximately $1.4 billion) dedicated to the construction of a state-of-the-art energy recovery facility. The project is envisioned to transform waste through incineration, subsequently generating electricity that could supply 20% of household consumption.
Progressive Steps Towards Sustainable Waste Management
The implementation of this project will occur in phases, with the first operational stage expected to commence in 2027. Initially, the facility will continue to utilize traditional waste disposal methods, including pre-sorting waste to ensure that only non-recyclable materials are buried. This transitional phase will allow the city to maintain controlled landfill operations while gradually shifting toward more sustainable waste management practices. The incineration unit, the project's most complex component, is anticipated to be fully operational by 2029, at which point energy production will begin in earnest.
For the next two years, the existing landfill will remain in service, with ample capacity to accommodate the waste generated during this period, thanks to optimized management strategies. Recently, a new section of the landfill has been added to handle the city’s waste temporarily, while preparations for the new waste facility are underway. This project is seen as a critical development for Casablanca, marking a shift from traditional disposal methods to a more sustainable and innovative approach to waste management, ultimately positioning the city as a leader in environmental stewardship.
As reported by medias24.com.
