More than thirty years after its ban, chlordecone continues to have a profound impact on the French West Indies. According to a new study by Public Health France published on June 24, 81,3% of adults in Guadeloupe and 85,5% in Martinique still have detectable traces of this pesticide in their blood. The Kannari 2 survey, conducted with more than 2,300 people, also reveals that approximately one in six residents exceeds the reference health threshold set by the authorities, a level above which health effects cannot be ruled out.
Persistent pollution despite the ban
Used extensively in banana plantations between 1972 and 1993 to combat the banana weevil, chlordecone is now considered one of the biggest French health scandals. Although banned for over three decades, this pesticide remains highly present in the soils, rivers, and coastal areas of the French West Indies. Its exceptional persistence worries scientists: some studies estimate that it could remain in contaminated land for up to 600 years.
The study shows that contamination varies considerably depending on dietary habits and place of residence. People living in contaminated areas or who regularly consume local fish, crustaceans, and mollusks have significantly higher levels of exposure. Fishermen and farmers are among the most exposed groups. Age is also an important factor, with people over 50 generally having higher concentrations than younger generations.
A few days after the Paris Court of Appeal upheld the dismissal of the criminal charges, victims' associations continue to demand justice and reparations. An interministerial task force is currently working in Martinique and Guadeloupe to prepare a compensation scheme for victims, in accordance with the recent Califer law which recognizes the State's responsibility in this major health scandal.
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