Saint-Martin, an inspiring island
As 2025 begins, it is time to reflect on the positive achievements that marked our beautiful island of Saint Martin throughout the past year.
Restoration & Ecology
Mangrove Project 202
The Mangrove Project restored more than 5 hectares of mangroves around Simpson Bay Lagoon and the salt ponds, thanks to a collaboration between the NGO EPIC, which coordinated the plantings, and the Nature Foundation St. Maarten, responsible for marine species relocation and environmental monitoring. Students from the St. Maarten Academy participated in educational workshops, while researchers from the University of St. Martin conducted studies on ecological impact. Local companies, such as Sint Maarten Sails, ensured the transport of teams and materials, while others installed structures to protect young plants. This project facilitated the return of the snowy egret (Egretta thula) and the yellowtail snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus), enhancing the island’s biodiversity and ecological resilience against climate challenges.
Beach Cleanup Campaigns
Hundreds of volunteers mobilized during quarterly campaigns, collecting more than 10 tons of waste, particularly plastics, while raising awareness about the importance of reducing its usage.
Solar Panel Installations
Thanks to regional grants, more than 200 households and businesses installed solar panels, reducing the island’s dependence on fossil fuels and accelerating its energy transition. This progress was made possible through specialized players like Energie Caraïbes Solar, known for its installations tailored to local needs, and Solaris Store, which provides solar equipment from leading brands, including photovoltaic panels, batteries, and inverters. These initiatives also involved local businesses such as the La Samanna hotel and the Le Pressoir restaurant, which invested in solar systems to meet their energy needs. These collective efforts, supported by residents and professionals, have allowed Saint Martin to take an important step toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
Launch of the "Green SXM Fund"
The Green SXM Fund financed five innovative projects to promote renewable energy and waste management. Among them, a plastic waste treatment plant, operated by Verde SXM Idex SAS, was created in Cul-de-Sac, contributing to local recycling in partnership with initiatives like the Green Dream Projects Foundation. The fund also supported the installation of solar panels in public buildings, the implementation of selective recycling bins, educational recycling programs in schools, and community gardens using sustainable practices. By mobilizing public and private funds, the Green SXM Fund plays a key role in the island’s ecological transition and in raising awareness among the population about environmentally friendly practices.
Eco-Responsibility Certification
Several hotels obtained ecological certifications for their commitment to sustainable practices. Among them, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, in Baie Longue, stood out by reducing single-use plastics and implementing recycling programs. The Grand Case Beach Club adopted eco-friendly cleaning products and water management systems to minimize its environmental impact, while Le Petit Hotel in Grand Case prioritizes renewable energy and raises awareness among its guests about environmentally responsible behaviors. These initiatives reflect the determination of the island’s tourism actors to preserve its ecosystem while offering high-quality services.
Improved Hiking Trails
Initiatives were undertaken to rehabilitate the hiking trails of Pic Paradis. These efforts aimed to improve accessibility and safety along the paths leading to the summit, offering hikers better-maintained and marked routes. Additionally, educational routes were developed to highlight local biodiversity. These thematic trails, complemented by informational panels, allow visitors to discover the richness of the island’s fauna and flora while raising awareness about environmental preservation.
School Renovations
Two schools were completely renovated thanks to European funding, providing nearly 800 students with a modern and secure learning environment. Among them, the schools in the Quartier d’Orléans, notably Éliane Clarke and Clair St. Maximin, underwent significant renovations, as did Jérôme Beaupère School in Sandy Ground and Ghislaine Rogers School in Grand Case. At the same time, the Collectivité launched a program to green public schools, incorporating plantings and natural irrigation systems to transform school spaces into more ecological environments. These projects demonstrate Saint Martin’s commitment to modernizing its educational system and meeting the needs of its youth.
Health & Wellness
New Community Medical Center
A new community medical center has opened in Grand Case, providing local healthcare services to over 2,000 residents. This project, funded by public and private contributions, offers services in general medicine, ophthalmology, dentistry, and physiotherapy. The Clin d’Oeil Ophthalmology Health Center and the Grand Case Dental Clinic are among the main facilities, equipped with modern technologies. These centers enhance access to healthcare for residents of Grand Case and its surrounding areas, thereby strengthening the healthcare system in Saint Martin.
Health and Wellness Promotion
Two major initiatives have been implemented to promote health and wellness in Saint Martin: Bougez SXM and the educational program SXM No Obesity. Bougez SXM brought together more than 1,000 participants for free activities such as yoga sessions, jogging, and nutrition workshops, organized in neighborhoods like Marigot, Grand Case, and Quartier d’Orléans. An Instagram challenge, under the hashtag #BougezSXM, strengthened community engagement while offering activities adapted for people with reduced mobility. SXM No Obesity raised awareness among children and their families about the importance of a balanced diet through interactive workshops conducted in schools by health professionals and local chefs. Together, these initiatives positively impacted hundreds of families, fostered social cohesion, and encouraged healthy lifestyles on the island.
Art Therapy in Saint Martin
In December 2024, the Art Therapy Gallery opened its doors in Saint Martin, combining art and wellness. This unique space showcases works by local artists and participants in art therapy workshops. In addition to exhibitions, the gallery offers interactive workshops and therapeutic activities, supported by local associations and mental health professionals. Its aim is to promote well-being and creativity within the community.
Solidarity & Social Cohesion
Community Solidarity Days
The Community Solidarity Days brought residents together to renovate social housing and create community gardens. Supported by the Compagnons Bâtisseurs Saint-Martin, these initiatives restored damaged homes and provided more than 50 families with access to fresh, locally grown produce. These events also trained young people in construction trades and urban agriculture, fostering professional integration and social cohesion.
Opening of the Women’s House
This initiative marked a significant step forward for solidarity and social cohesion on the island. Designed to support women in vulnerable situations—whether facing violence, poverty, or isolation—this project was made possible through the support of the Collectivité of Saint Martin, European funds, and local associations such as Saint-Martin Solidarité Femmes and the Hope Healing Foundation. Local businesses also contributed by providing material resources and services to equip the premises, while regional organizations from Guadeloupe and Martinique offered specialized training for the local teams. Within a few months, this multidisciplinary space, offering psychological support, legal assistance, reintegration workshops, and wellness activities, supported dozens of beneficiaries, becoming a symbol of mutual aid and a pillar for women's rights in Saint Martin.
Technology & Innovation
Expanded Public Wi-Fi
A free public Wi-Fi network has been deployed in strategic areas such as the beaches of Grand Case and Orient Bay, as well as public squares in Marigot and Philipsburg. Implemented in collaboration with the local operator Dauphin Telecom, this initiative aims to improve connectivity for residents and visitors, while boosting tourism appeal and facilitating access to digital services on the island. Applications like WiFi Map make it easy to locate these hotspots quickly and efficiently.
Local Startups
The first startup incubator has opened in Marigot to support the development of innovative young businesses. Among its initial beneficiaries, ten entrepreneurs have received support in various sectors, including technology, agriculture, and services. The incubator provides key resources, such as collaborative workspaces, specialized training, and access to mentors, transforming promising ideas into viable projects. This initiative represents an important step in stimulating innovation and strengthening the local economy.
SXM Future Leaders Program
This program marked a turning point for young talents in Saint Martin by offering free training in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development to shape the territory’s future leaders. Supported by local organizations like Initiative Saint Martin Active, the program provided five young individuals with comprehensive assistance, including financial aid and administrative support, while reinforcing their commitment to building Saint Martin’s future. Among these five participants, Laurie Emile, a graduate in medical-social services, aspires to create a respite care center for the elderly and disabled. Robinson, passionate about IT and cybersecurity, aims to specialize in meeting the island’s growing needs in this field.
Culture & Diversity
Festival of Cultures
In June 2024, the Saint Martin Festival of Cultures celebrated the island’s diversity through dance and traditional music performances, art exhibitions, and culinary stands. Organized by the Collectivité, this event brought together local artists and communities to showcase their traditions. Debates also addressed topics such as heritage and cultural coexistence, strengthening community ties and highlighting the cultural richness of Saint Martin.
Support for Associations
More than 15 local associations received grants from the Collectivité to support projects focused on professional integration, assistance for women in difficulty, and support for the elderly. Among them, the Association Force Femmes helped women over 45 years old find employment or start their own businesses, while Initiative Saint-Martin Active supported entrepreneurial initiatives for individuals in need. The Association d’Insertion et de Développement de Saint-Martin (AIDES) assisted RSTA beneficiaries and individuals reintegrating after incarceration by providing opportunities for training and reintegration. Meanwhile, the Centre d'Hébergement et de Réinsertion Sociale (CHRS) Le Manteau de Saint-Martin provided shelter, housing, and support to families and individuals in precarious situations. These initiatives have strengthened the local associative fabric and contributed to the social and economic development of the island.
Sint Maarten Carnival 2024
The event saw record attendance, with over 50,000 visitors generating nearly €10 million for the local economy. Special attention was given this year to showcasing local artisans and musical traditions.
The year 2024 was marked by ambitious initiatives and significant achievements in Saint Martin, reflecting a collective determination to move toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative future. Whether through environmental preservation, the promotion of health and well-being, the strengthening of social ties, technological innovation, or the celebration of cultural diversity, each project has enriched the lives of residents while enhancing the island’s appeal. In 2025, Saint Martin continues to be a source of inspiration, demonstrating that collective commitment and concrete actions can turn challenges into opportunities. With this spirit, the island is committed to pursuing harmonious development for the benefit of its communities and its environment.