Morocco renews efforts to improve pesticide management

With its intoxicating open-air spice markets, awe-inspiring landscapes – ranging from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains – and stunning ancient architecture, Morocco has a unique charm. However, like most developing countries, it must contend with challenges stemming from rapid modernization, including threats to public health caused by the increased use of public health and hygiene pesticides (PHHP).

In response to this issue, the government of Morocco is embarking on a multifaceted, three-year project with the Chemicals and Waste Management Programme of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to strengthen its institutional capacity to manage PHHPs. The project will better protect the health of the country’s 36 million people and allow Morocco to fulfil its obligations as a party to the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm and Minamata Conventions, protective UN instruments that deal with key aspects of chemicals and waste management