Eco-Hammam Initiative: Replicating the FSAC Model for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment and Resource Reuse in Dar Bouazza, Morocco

With increasing water scarcity in Morocco, unconventional resources are essential. Urban areas have improved sanitation, but rural areas lack basic infrastructure due to scattered dwellings and limited access. This highlights the urgent need for innovative, sustainable solutions to ensure adequate sanitation for all.

This work focuses on replicating the Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock (FSAC) model for the treatment and reuse of wastewater from a peri-urban traditional hammam in Casablanca, specifically in the municipality of Dar Bouazza. The FSAC model has proven to be successful in managing wastewater effectively within an urban setting, and this study aims to adapt and implement this model in a peri-urban context. This initiative is part of the Eco-Hammam project, which aims to minimize the negative impacts of traditional hammams in terms of the irrational and uncontrolled consumption of water and wood energy resources.

Traditional hammams, while culturally significant, often contribute to significant environmental challenges. They are known for their high water consumption and reliance on wood for heating. Addressing these issues through the Eco-Hammam project involves implementing sustainable practices and technologies that reduce resource consumption and promote environmental stewardship.

To achieve this, a comprehensive environmental diagnosis of all hammams in the municipality of Dar Bouazza, our study site, has been undertaken. Following this environmental diagnosis, a feasibility study is conducted to assess the possibility of replicating the FSAC mini-station to treat the wastewater of the selected pilot hammam, namely, My Yacoub II.

The replication of the FSAC model in Dar Bouazza aims to demonstrate that sustainable water management practices can be effectively implemented in peri-urban and rural areas. By showcasing the successful treatment and reuse of wastewater, the project hopes to inspire similar initiatives across Morocco and beyond, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for communities facing water scarcity.