Chlordecone Compensation Moves Forward: A new law has come into effect in the French West Indies officially recognizing the State’s responsibility for the long-term chlordecone pollution in Guadeloupe and Martinique, opening the door to talks on compensation for people affected by pesticide exposure; the government has one year to report to Parliament on extending the compensation scheme, with funding linked to an added levy on tobacco products, while priorities include faster cleanup, support for agriculture and fishing, stronger research on related diseases, and improved care for victims as court rulings are expected soon. Marine Protection Boost: On World Oceans Day, France designated three new strictly protected marine zones, raising protected waters to 14.68% (toward a 14.8% goal), including coral reef protections in Guadeloupe for sea turtles and new safeguards in the Bay of Audierne for the Kentish plover, with strict rules limiting fishing, extraction, and tourism. Travel Access to Guadeloupe: Air Canada will launch a new weekly nonstop route from Quebec City to Pointe-à-Pitre, starting Dec. 17, 2026 through April 8, 2027, adding another gateway for eastern Canadian travelers.