Preserving Geoheritage in Chefchaouen-Morocco, After a Well Accident: A Focus on Sustainability

• Published in: Geoheritage 2025-03, Vol.17 (1), Article 14
• Main Authors: AbdelMaksoud, Kholoud M., El-Tantawi, Attia M., Lagnaoui, Abdelouahed, Al-Metwaly, Wael M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biogeosciences; Earth and Environmental Science; Earth Sciences; Geoheritage; Historical Geology; Human settlements; Land use planning; Landscape/Regional and Urban Planning; Mineralogy; Original Article; Paleontology; Physical Geography; Risk assessment; Slope stability; Spatial analysis; Sustainability; Sustainable development
• ISSN: 1867-2477; 1867-2485
• DOI: 10.1007/s12371-024-01059-0

A well-known accident in the Chefchaouen district of Morocco has highlighted the vulnerability of the region’s valuable geoheritage to environmental contamination. To assess the potential risks and inform effective mitigation strategies, we conducted a geoenvironmental assessment study. By integrating diverse data sources, including geological maps, satellite imagery, and spatial analysis techniques, we developed a risk assessment map for the Chefchaouen neighborhood. This map incorporates factors such as slope stability, geological formations, and structural information. Our study represents a pioneering effort in utilizing big data analytics to evaluate geoheritage risks. The generated risk assessment map provides a valuable tool for decision-makers to implement both immediate and long-term response plans. By identifying vulnerable areas and prioritizing mitigation measures, we can enhance the resilience of the region and protect its invaluable geoheritage. This approach aligns with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, promoting the creation of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements. Furthermore, it can support improved land use planning, resilient infrastructure development, and sustainable industrialization.