A study of the impact of scrap on ground water: The case of scrap essaada in meknes–Morocco

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate a subject that is little approached in environmental circles in Morocco. It concerns the domain of scrap considered as an informal sector of important economic and industrial activities. Scrap yards which are generally poorly fitted out and populated spaces are scenes for activities that may cause risks, often ignored, to the natural environment as well as the human health. Indeed, waste stemming from activities of the scrap may present harmful effects on grounds, on groundwater, and on flora and fauna. This study is concerned with the impact of the activities of the Essaâda scrap of Meknes on the groundwater. This site constitutes a representative sample of scrap yards in Morocco for they all have (more or less) the same characteristics. To conduct this research, we collected water samples of subterranean waters of wells situated inside and outside of the scrap yard in December, March and May. The collected samples are studied by determining the existence of the compounds of hydrocarbons. Hence the need of the implementation of a device of environmental management. The products used in these environments are hydrocarbons: this includes detergents, antifreeze, liquids for clutches and brakes, (lubricants) engine oils, greases, polyester putties, diluents cellulosic. The majority of these junkyards are poorly designed and are part of the informal sector. However, work there remains generally precarious in very bad sanitary and safety conditions beyond any control of the public authorities: inhuman work and hygiene conditions along with negative externalities are observed in this sense. These externalities, particularly, those related to the landscape, public health and the air should be a concern of policy makers to outsource them or limit them (DJEMACI, 2013). And yet this scrap is neglected: no study, no monitoring and no reaction from the Government departments concerned. This research aims at studying the impact of the activities of scrap on the environment and on human health.. (This is how the questions call out to us.).