The ENHOGAR-MICS 2025 Basic Report found that 48.9% of households in the Dominican Republic are affected by at least one type of environmental pollution or nuisance in their surrounding community. The findings highlight the impact that neighborhood conditions can have on residents’ quality of life and mental well-being.
The survey shows that environmental concerns are more prevalent in densely populated urban areas. The Ozama region, which includes the National District and Santo Domingo Province, recorded the highest level of reported environmental problems, with 57.5% of households saying they are affected.
Noise Pollution Tops Residents’ Complaints
Noise was identified as one of the most common environmental issues nationwide. Loud music from neighborhood businesses, bars and nearby homes was the leading complaint, affecting 40.4% of surveyed households.
Other sources of urban noise—including traffic, motorcycles and power plants—were reported by 38.0% of respondents, underscoring the widespread impact of noise pollution in residential communities.
Garbage Accumulation Remains a Major Concern
Inadequate solid waste management also emerged as a significant issue. According to the report, 39.7% of families said the accumulation of garbage on streets, sidewalks or vacant lots negatively affects their communities.
The findings suggest that waste management continues to be one of the principal environmental challenges facing many Dominican neighborhoods, particularly in urban settings.
Other Environmental Hazards Identified
The survey also measured additional environmental conditions that residents believe reduce the quality of their surroundings. Stagnant water and open drainage channels or ravines were reported by 26.3% of households.
Meanwhile, 21.8% of respondents said they are directly affected by smoke, dust or emissions from industrial activity and motor vehicles. Together, these indicators provide a broader picture of the environmental conditions experienced by households across the Dominican Republic.