What was the state of air quality in 2025 within the CACEM region? Before improving air quality, it is essential to analyze and identify the causes of pollution in order to better address them. This is a critical issue, as pollution causes numerous diseases every year.
Current Status
Numerous studies were conducted in 2025 in the Central Martinique Urban Community (CACEM) area, providing an overview of air pollution throughout the region. Understanding which areas are the most polluted makes it possible to take action and better identify the causes of this pollution in order to address them.
Among the main pollutants detected is nitrogen dioxide, which is emitted by motor vehicles and serves as an indicator of traffic pollution. This pollution remains high near traffic routes—and sometimes exceeds regulatory thresholds—but decreases with distance from the roads. In Fort-de-France, levels may be high in certain areas but currently remain below the recommended thresholds.
As for benzene—another pollutant classified as a carcinogen that is linked to fuels and industrial emissions—one area appears to be particularly affected: Etang Z’Abricot, where:
- All measured readings exceed the recommended air quality level
- At several locations, the levels even exceed the regulatory thresholds
- According to Madininair, the highest concentrations are found in populated areas
What are the solutions?
There are many solutions, but they require the mobilization of resources and a commitment from citizens. According to Madininair, action can be taken at the regional level as well as on an individual basis. For example, given that a significant portion of pollution comes from transportation, it would be advisable to «expand public transportation» and «limit traffic in the most exposed areas.» More generally, «air quality should be incorporated into urban planning projects.».
In addition, residents of these areas can also take action on their own by choosing «public transportation or carpooling,» walking, or using «bicycles for short trips,» or by maintaining their vehicles.
Air quality is therefore a top environmental priority that must be closely monitored, as its impact on human health is a major concern—and yet another reason to take action!
SD
