Sustainable Development Project for the City of Tafraoute ;Towards a Sustainable, Mobile, Responsible, and Exemplary City

This project report was developed in view of the Competition of the 2nd Edition of the Tafraoute Scientific Days towards a Sustainable, Mobile, Responsible, and Exemplary City by a team of collaborators from UM6P, Morocco; the University of Coimbra, Portugal; POLIMI, Italy; and ENTPR, France. Executive summary: This report outlines a comprehensive sustainable development strategy for the city of Tafraoute, a small town in Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains known for its striking granitelandscapes andrich Amazigh heritage. The proposed plan aims to tackle critical challenges in mobility, waste management, energy use, tourism, and cultural preservation, all while fostering economic growth and safeguarding the local environment. 1. Status Quo and Challenges: Tafraoute’s population of just over 6,000 faces rising unemployment and illiteracy, coupled with limited infrastructure and natural resource constraints. While the city enjoys abundant solar energy potential, its mountainous terrain and semi-arid climate pose hurdles to expansion, especially regarding water scarcity and vulnerability to climate-induced natural disasters. 2. Smart Mobility To overcome reliance on private vehicles and narrow streets, the plan envisions a shift to electric shuttles, bike-sharing stations, and pedestrian zones. A proposed cable car system would improve access to mountainous areas while attracting tourism. By integrating solar-poweredcharging stations, AI-driven route optimization, and inclusive design features, Tafraoute could drastically reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion. 3. Biodiversity, Environment, and Circular Economy A central priority is modernizing waste management. Initiatives include: o Establishing a waste sorting center to separate recyclables and organic materials. o Introducing composting and anaerobic digestion (biogas) to reduce landfill reliance, generate energy, and create soil amendments. o Implementing water-saving practices (like fog collectors and rainwater harvesting) and shading strategies (green corridors, water bunds, and tree planting) to combat desertification. 4. Energy Efficiency and Renewables Capitalizing on Tafraoute’s strong solar irradiance, the plan recommends decentralized photovoltaic installations on public buildings (e.g., schools, municipal offices) and solar thermal systems for the municipal swimming pool. A biogas plant co-located with the slaughterhouse and wastewater facilities would further cut fossil fuel demand while promoting a circular economy. 5. Tourism Development and Cultural Preservation With fewer than 6,000 annual visitors, Tafraoute has untapped tourism potential. Enhancements include: o A municipal campsite, an Amazigh Heritage Museum, a Geopark Discovery Center, and a floral park to showcase local biodiversity. o Family-oriented attractions (educational farms, nature-themed play areas) to broaden Tafraoute’s appeal. o Upgraded accessibility (regional airport, improved roads, conference center) to support business and cultural events. o Restoration of traditional architecture and promotion of local crafts to preserve Tafraoute’s distinctive heritage.