Production and Recycling of Agricultural Mulching Films in Morocco: Challenges, Barriers, and Strategic Pathways

Fatima Azzahra Louanjli; Ghita Radi Benjelloun; Khawla Waddi; FatimaZahra Boutaleb; Rajaa Tesse; Ikrame Charef; Meriem Mahmoudi; Bouchaib Bahlaouan; Nadia Boutaleb

doi:10.63095/NBSEH.26.787520

Authors

Fatima Azzahra Louanjli Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
Ghita Radi Benjelloun Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
Khawla Waddi Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
FatimaZahra Boutaleb Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
Rajaa Tesse Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
Ikrame Charef Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
Meriem Mahmoudi Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
Bouchaib Bahlaouan Higher Institutes of the Nursing Professions and Techniques of Health (ISPITS) (https://ror.org/007h8y788), Laboratory of Care, Health and Sustainable Development 2S2D, Casablanca 22500, Morocco
Nadia Boutaleb Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology, Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality, Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.26.787520

Keywords:

Agricultural mulching films, Recycling barriers, Circular economy

Abstract

Agricultural mulching films, mainly made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE), play a central role in Morocco's agricultural development, particularly in high value-added regions such as Souss-Massa and Gharb. They reduce the use of plant protection products, while increasing yields and saving water resources. The lack of recovery and recycling of these films has a major polluting effect on the environment. This study analyses the Moroccan mulch film sector, based on a survey of ten leading companies in the plasticulture sector, using tools such as the Ishikawa diagram, SWOT analysis, and risk analysis. The results show a high dependence on virgin polymers, with a recycling rate rarely exceeding 30%. The World Bank has set out a roadmap for 2028. Such measures could transform Moroccan plasticulture from an ecological burden to a real benefit.

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