Assessing Groundwater Depletion in Marrakech, Morocco: A Remote Sensing Approach to Sustainable Water Management in Luxury Complexes
摘要
Water scarcity in Marrakech’s semi-arid region is increasingly driven by the expansion of luxurious residential and recreational complexes, which demand substantial groundwater resources for irrigation and leisure amenities such as swimming pools and golf lakes. This study investigates the relationship between extensive vegetated areas, high irrigation demands, and groundwater depletion in ten prominent luxury complexes near Marrakech. Utilizing Earth observation techniques, including satellite imagery and water balance analysis, the research identifies critical areas of water overexploitation and assesses the impact of high-water consumption patterns. The findings highlight the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to mitigate groundwater depletion. Strategic solutions proposed include the implementation of precision irrigation systems, the adoption of drought-tolerant landscaping, and the integration of treated wastewater for irrigation and leisure purposes. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of robust policy frameworks to regulate groundwater extraction and promote efficient water use technologies. By adopting these measures, Marrakech can balance urban development and the preservation of vital water resources, ensuring long-term ecological and socio-economic sustainability.