In the heart of Morocco’s burgeoning mining sector, a digital revolution is underway, promising to reshape how companies manage land and engage with communities. At the forefront of this transformation is Maroua Chattat, a researcher from the Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II in Rabat. Her work, published in the International Journal of Computer Engineering and Data Science (Revue Internationale de Génie Informatique et des Sciences des Données), introduces a pioneering GIS-based geoportal that could set new standards for land management and societal acceptability in mining.
Chattat’s research addresses a pressing need in Morocco’s mining industry: the complex interplay between land management and societal considerations. “The challenges are multifaceted,” Chattat explains. “We’re talking about land security, traceability of mining footprints, and social acceptability in sensitive territories. These issues demand integrated digital solutions that can streamline processes and foster transparency.”
The solution Chattat and her team developed is a bimodal approach. First, a web geoportal called MineMaps centralizes land data, enabling interactive visualization of mining sites and digitizing land transactions. This tool is a game-changer for companies like the Managem Group, a key player in Morocco’s mining industry. “MineMaps allows us to have a comprehensive view of our mining sites, making land management more efficient and reducing legal risks,” says a spokesperson for the Managem Group.
But the innovation doesn’t stop at land management. Chattat’s research also introduces a dynamic digital tool for structured societal actions planning, aligned with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. This tool organizes actions, stakeholder data, and impact indicators, fostering inclusive and sustainable territorial governance.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As the demand for minerals crucial for renewable energy technologies grows, so does the need for responsible mining practices. Chattat’s geoportal and societal actions tool could become a blueprint for mining companies worldwide, helping them navigate complex land management issues and build stronger relationships with local communities.
“This research is not just about technology; it’s about people and the planet,” Chattat asserts. “It’s about creating a future where mining can coexist harmoniously with communities and the environment.”
As the mining sector continues to evolve, Chattat’s work serves as a reminder of the power of digital innovation in driving sustainable practices. Her research, published in the International Journal of Computer Engineering and Data Science, is a testament to the potential of GIS-based solutions in shaping the future of mining. The question now is, which company will be the next to embrace this digital revolution?