This paper aims to present a comprehensive socio-economic and environmental analysis of the Oualidia lagoon in Morocco. This lagoon is classified as a RAMSAR site since 2005, providing valuable ecosystem services for the surrounding population. This paper followed the Drivers-Activities-Pressures-State-Change-Impact-Responses (DPSIR) framework to evaluate environmental condition changes within the lagoon to support decision-making. The present research suggests a potential future model for safeguarding the lagoon's ecosystem without risking the well-being of future generations.

This study assesses the spatial distribution and contamination level of heavy metals in Safi Bay surface sediments. In this order, 28 surface sediment samples were retrieved from the study area and analyzed using the x-fluorescence method. To assess the contamination of the examined sediment, we used geo-ecological indices such as contamination factor (CF), degree of contamination (DC), geo accumulation index, and pollution load index (PLI). The results show that only Pb and Cd present moderate and considerable contamination in some sampling sites, while other elements (Cr, Cu, Zn, and Ni) indicate no contamination and low contamination by these elements. The inhomogeneous distribution of metal concentrations along the bay suggests different heavy metal sources. Given the ecological and socioeconomic importance of the study area, there is a need for a further analysis of both sediments and biological samples for a better understanding of the contamination levels and origin of metals, in addition to the sustainability of Safi Bay.

Currently, the Moulay Bousselham lagoon faces a pressing issue of sediment buildup, particularly in the inlet zone, which has led to the formation of sandy areas known as “sandpits” and poses the threat of inlet closure. This environmental challenge has significant implications for the lagoon’s ecological well-being and the local economy. In response to this issue, decision-makers have initiated a comprehensive study to identify viable hydrodynamic solutions that can effectively mitigate sediment deposition and improve the lagoon’s overall conditions. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the complex interplay between socio-economic factors and their impacts on the lagoon environment. To accomplish this, a DPSIR (Driving forces-Pressures-States-Impacts-Responses) framework is adopted. This framework facilitates the analysis of causal relationships among various elements, such as economic sectors, human activities (driving forces), resulting emissions and waste (pressures), the physical, chemical, and biological condition of the lagoon (states), and the ecological, societal, and economic consequences (impacts). By understanding these connections, appropriate policy responses can be formulated, including prioritization, target setting, and the development of relevant indicators. In addition to the comprehensive assessment of the lagoon’s socio-economic and environmental dynamics, this study also proposes management strategies that balance the current state of the lagoon with the long-term ecological sustainability and the well-being of the local population. By considering the unique challenges faced by the Moulay Bousselham lagoon and exploring feasible solutions, this research aims to guide decision-making processes and contribute to the preservation and effective management of this valuable coastal ecosystem.

The lagoon is a natural system protected from the sea by a dune barrier creating energy from the movement of rising and falling tides, thus providing a sustainable option for extracting energy from tidal currents. The energy that can be extracted is one of the most potential renewable energy...