Organized by the Ibn Rochd Foundation for Science and Innovation (FIRSI), Mohammed V University of Rabat (UM5), and its Faculty of Sciences, in partnership with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW), the event serves as a platform to foster interdisciplinary exchange, promote high-level meetings, and disseminate research on natural substances.
On this occasion, ICESCO Director General Salim Bin Mohammed Al-Malik—in a speech delivered on his behalf by ICESCO Deputy Director General Abdelilah Benarafa—emphasized that sustainably developed and utilized natural substances can become a powerful driver of economic, social, and environmental transformation.
He highlighted the importance of promoting these substances in a world facing rising health challenges, increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions, and growing awareness of the impact of consumed products. According to him, this issue touches on essential aspects of human life such as health, ecosystem preservation, and the reform of food systems.
For his part, Mohamed El Ghachi, President of UM5, noted that the congress aligns with a scientific and ethical approach of great significance, emphasizing that the integration of natural substances into sustainable strategies in health, nutrition, and cosmetics is central to contemporary scientific, environmental, and societal concerns.
He stated that UM5 places special importance on scientific research related to natural substances and biotechnology, pointing out that the university has launched several pioneering initiatives to explore the properties and benefits of local medicinal plants, and to develop sustainable strategies for their scientific use.
Mohamed Baraoui, Director of Climate and Biodiversity at the Ministry of Energy Transition, underlined that Morocco, under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, has made sustainable development a national strategic priority.
He added that the National Strategy for Sustainable Development (NSSD), adopted in 2017 and currently under revision, provides a comprehensive framework aimed at reconciling the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of progress.
Mr. Baraoui also emphasized Morocco’s commitment to the sustainable valorization of biodiversity and traditional knowledge, as well as to the conservation and fair use of genetic resources, in accordance with international commitments. He recalled Morocco’s ratification of the Nagoya Protocol on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use.
Throughout this high-level event, participants will explore several key themes related to natural substances and sustainable development through specialized workshops and scientific sessions. Topics include the extraction and purification of active natural compounds, the development of modern technologies to enhance the value of medicinal and aromatic plants, and innovations in plant-based medicines and natural cosmetics.
They will also address food security and nutritional supplements derived from natural substances, technical and regulatory challenges for marketing these products, and successful international experiences in green economy and sustainable development based on natural resources.
Running until May 31, the congress brings together over 250 experts, specialists, academics, and student researchers from 27 countries and 45 universities, alongside representatives of research institutions, companies, and international organizations.