The argan tree as a fundamental pillar for sustainable development.




The argan tree is typically a multipurpose tree that supports income generation, increases resilience and improves climate adaptation, playing a very important role in achieving the three dimensions of sustainable development - economic, social and environmental - at the local level.

The sustainable argan production sector contributes to the economic empowerment and financial inclusion of local communities, especially women living in rural areas. Cooperatives are instrumental in promoting local job opportunities and can play an important role in contributing to food security and in eradicating poverty.

For centuries, the argan tree has been a mainstay of the Berber and Arab-origin indigenous rural communities, which developed a specific culture and identity, sharing their traditional knowledge and skills through non-formal education, particularly the unique knowledge associated with the traditional production of argan oil by women.

The unique argan-based agro-forestry-pastoral system uses only locally adapted species and pastoralism activities and relies on traditional water management provided by the Matifiya - a rain water reservoir carved into rock, hence contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and to the conservation of biodiversity.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The know-how related to the argan Tree.

Image
Did you know that he UNESCO has inscribed the Argan practices and know-how related to the argan Tree to the Intangible World Heritage list and designated the endemic production area as a Biosphere Reserve . Argan practices refer to the traditional knowledge and methods surrounding the argan tree (Argania spinosa) and its oil, particularly in southwestern Morocco. This includes the cultivation of the tree, the extraction of argan oil from the fruits, and the various uses of the oil and its byproducts. These practices are deeply rooted in the Berber culture and have been passed down through generations. Here's a more detailed look at some of the key argan practices: 1. Cultivation and Harvesting : Argan trees are native to southwestern Morocco and are typically found in arid and semi-arid regions. Traditional cultivation methods include agroforestry, where argan trees are integrated with other crops and livestock. Goats are known to climb argan trees to feed on the fruit, someti...
Read more

The multifaceted argan tree.

Image
The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a native species of the sub-Saharan region of Morocco, in the southwest of the country, which grows in arid and semiarid areas. It’s the defining species of a woodland ecosystem, also known as Arganeraie, which is rich in endemic flora. It is resilient to a harsh environment under water scarcity, risk of erosion and poor soils. This ecosystem of extraordinary beauty is not only important in terms of conservation, but also for research and socio-economic development, due to its forestry, agricultural and livestock use. The argan tree woodlands provide forest products, fruits and fodder. The leaves and the fruits are edible and highly appreciated, as is the undergrowth, and constitute a vital fodder reserve for all herds, even in periods of drought. The trees are also used as fuelwood for cooking and heating. The world-renowned argan oil is extracted from the seeds and has multiple applications, especially in traditional and complementary medicine an...
Read more