I lavoratori di fossili di Erfoud
Fotografie, editing, post produzione: Michele Abriola
Orthoceras and ammonites come from the Fossil Valley of Erfoud in Morocco, they are generally used to make table decorations and furnishings.
The marine fossils of the Cretaceous can be bought at a good price and are a fundamental part of the local economy. 70% of the inhabitants of the area live thanks to activities related to the exploitation of fossils.
This priceless heritage is in danger of disappearing, due to intensive exploitation, which is why the government of Morocco and Unesco have made a series of laws and regulations to limit the export and marketing without rules of these assets.
Obviously, as soon as restrictions have been placed, the black market has exploded, the fossil valley is in danger. Workers often work in makeshift conditions ignoring the most basic rules of workplace safety.