Systematic Review of Noise Pollution in Morocco: Regulatory Frameworks, Urban Impacts, and Policy Recommendations

TL;DR

This paper reviews noise pollution in Moroccan cities, highlighting health risks and inadequate regulations, and suggests policy improvements.

Contribution

The study provides a systematic review of noise pollution in Morocco, identifying gaps in regulation and proposing targeted policy solutions.

Findings

Average noise levels in Moroccan urban centers exceed international safety thresholds.

Noise pollution is linked to cardiovascular risks, sleep disturbances, and psychological stress.

Low-income districts in cities like Tangier and Casablanca face significant environmental inequalities.

Abstract

Background: Driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructural development, socio-economic growth, and population increase, noise pollution has become a major public health and environmental policy challenge in Moroccan cities. However, current legislation and enforcement mechanisms remain insufficient to address rising exposure levels and associated health risks. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines to examine urban noise levels, health implications, the regulatory frameworks, and policy actions related to noise pollution in Morocco. Various databases were systematically searched (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar), along with reports from international organizations and government bodies for studies published between 2003 and 2025. Eligible documents included peer-reviewed publications and official reports directly addressing Moroccan noise pollution, legislation, urban impacts, or health outcomes. Results: Twenty-three Moroccan studies and additional regional, European, and legislative sources were included. Findings show that average noise levels in Moroccan urban centers generally exceed international safety thresholds and are associated with cardiovascular risks, sleep disturbances, and psychological stress. The regulatory framework suffers from weak enforcement, limited monitoring protocols, and an absence of noise mapping. Tangier, Béni Mellal, Témara, Marrakech, and Casablanca exhibit significant environmental inequalities, particularly in low-income districts. Conclusions: Morocco’s current noise-management system is inadequate to address the growing health and environmental impacts of urban noise. Urgent actions are needed, including a dedicated noise-control law, systematic monitoring, noise mapping, and integration of public-health considerations into environmental governance. Policy reforms must prioritize vulnerable populations and align with international best practices.

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