Balancing urban growth and the sustainability of groundwater and agricultural land: Case of the berrechid-settat area

Abstract

Urbanization is an inevitable global phenomenon characterized by the exponential growth of urban areas in terms of both population and infrastructure. However, this rapid urban expansion often comes at a significant environmental cost. This article explores the multifaceted consequences of urbanization, shedding light on its role in contributing to desertification, compromising water quality, and depleting groundwater resources. To assess the scale of urbanization’s impact, comprehensive landuse studies are crucial. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques offer valuable tools for mapping and monitoring land-use changes over time. These methods enable the quantification of the conversion of agricultural land into urban areas and identify trends in urban sprawl, providing essential data for understanding the scale of the issue. Water quality assessments are equally vital; we can employ water sampling and laboratory analyses to quantify pollutant concentrations in urban runoff and groundwater. Monitoring the presence of contaminants such as oil, chemicals, and litter, as well as their effects on water quality; helps measure the environmental impact of urbanization. Groundwater studies can utilize hydrogeological investigations, including the use of monitoring wells and geophysical methods, to evaluate changes in groundwater levels and quality. These data are instrumental in gauging the depletion of groundwater reserves and their potential contribution to water scarcity issues. In conclusion, the consequences of urbanization extend far beyond the confines of urban areas, affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and water resources. As urbanization continues to advance, it is imperative to develop sustainable urban planning and management strategies that mitigate its environmental impact, preserve agricultural land, protect groundwater resources, and ensure the long-term health of the planet.