Health & Pollution: A study presented at the European Respiratory Society meeting in Barcelona found microplastics in 66% of lung cancer patients’ lung fluid samples (vs 46% without cancer), with higher particle burdens in cancer cases; researchers stress the link is clear but causation is still unknown. Climate Extremes & Water: Western Europe’s record-hot August is backed by Copernicus/NOAA/NASA data, with drought and very low river levels reported across parts of France, Hungary, Romania, Serbia and the UK, while El Niño is flagged as a key driver. Energy Stress: Europe’s factories brace for winter as energy costs spike again, with gas prices rising after disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz and energy-intensive sectors warning of possible shutdowns. Water Infrastructure Crisis (UK): Britain’s new environment secretary Angela Eagle held early talks with Thames Water and creditors, focusing on leakage performance as the company remains near collapse. EU Trade & Recycling: The EU’s aluminium scrap export levy is reportedly paused/softened amid India trade pressure, raising questions for Europe’s recycling push and lower-emissions supply chains. Forest Adaptation (Belgium): Belgian forestry workers are harvesting high-altitude pine cones to boost tree diversity and resilience after the country’s worst wildfire in a century. Microplastics in the body: Public Health: Air & Water Pollution: