Climate Extremes: The EU’s Copernicus monitor says May 2026 was the world’s second-warmest on record, with an unusually early, intense heatwave across Western Europe pushing “feels-like” temperatures to 35–40C in places. Marine Protection: The RSPB has bought Scotland’s Bass Rock and Craigleith islands to safeguard seabird sanctuaries, backed by £586,000 of public money, as pollution, overfishing and avian flu keep pressure on colonies. Wildlife & Planning Clash: Sandwell housing plans for the Rattlechain Tip site face backlash from wildlife groups over habitat for the rare Small Blue butterfly and other species. Water Sector Reform: UKWIR is restructuring its governance to boost research, product development and sector collaboration, including work on emerging contaminants like PFAS and better asset health approaches. Food & Fertiliser Pressure: The NFU warns fertiliser costs are being squeezed again after Iran-related shipping disruption, and calls for a trigger-point support plan while urging ministers to delay CBAM. Air Quality Rules: New DEFRA smoke-control rules mean £300 fines for wood and log burner users in smoke control areas if they break authorised-fuel and appliance requirements. Biodiversity at Sea: A first-ever analysis estimates bycatch is killing thousands of marine animals and seabirds in UK waters each year, with the true scale likely far higher. Energy Skills: Northern Gas Networks launches its 2026 apprenticeship drive to bring more people into the energy sector, including women and career-changers.