Biodiversity as an Asset for the Social and Solidarity Economy: Case of Bouhachem Natural Park, Northern Morocco

Abstract

The development of natural parks is a strong asset that highlights the preservation of biodiversity and its relationship with the social and solidarity economy (SSE). In this context, our objective in this work is to explore the relationship in Bouhachem Natural Park (BNP). Firstly, we threw light on the historical evolution of the richness of flora and fauna in this park. Secondly, we studied two main sectors linking biodiversity wealth to the SSE (cooperatives and rural tourism). The study showed that the plant formations and animal biodiversity making up the park have suffered from a considerable degradation. However, with the establishment of citizens' cooperatives that take into account the enhancement of the BNP biodiversity. This is particularly true of the apiculture cooperatives that make up 53% of the cooperatives operating in the BNP, and which, due to the pollination provided by bees, help to preserve and restore the biodiversity. Concerning the rural tourism, we identify five itineraries that show the natural, cultural, and gastronomic treasures of the BNP. In conclusion, the study underlines the importance of citizen cooperatives that could be an important solution for restoring and preserving the ecosystem.