Energy & Net Zero Politics: Andy Burnham’s first big moves include a 20% business rates cut for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England, but critics say he’s also raiding climate aid budgets to fund cost-of-living support, raising questions about priorities. North Sea Oil Fight: New energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh faces immediate pressure from Fossil Free London to scrap new drilling plans, with Jackdaw and Rosebank at the centre of the debate. Climate Adaptation in Action: United Utilities’ Thirlmere Resilience Partnership is restoring peatland, rivers and native woodland to protect water quality and reduce downstream treatment needs. Planning for Renewables: England’s permitted development rules for small wind could make it easier to install single turbines, but farmers warn food production land must be protected and consultation must be real. Nature & Community Wins: Little Paxton’s QEII Playing Field has earned a Green Flag, while schools across Mid Ulster and Wales rack up Eco-Schools and LEAF awards. Heat & Pollution Link: Research suggests cleaner air and fewer aerosols may be amplifying heatwaves, adding to the pressure on UK adaptation. Water Stress: Hosepipe bans are spreading as drought risk rises, with millions facing restrictions. Plastic Pollution Cleanup: After a Port of Tyne collision, councils are running round-the-clock nurdle clean-ups and urging people to keep dogs on leads. Wildlife Shifts: Beavers are expanding into Canada’s Arctic, with climate-linked habitat changes reshaping ecosystems.