Heat and climate extremes: The EU’s Copernicus monitor says May 2026 was the world’s second-hottest on record, with Western Europe hit by an unusually early, intense heatwave that broke records in France, Britain, Ireland, Spain and Portugal—another sign that extreme heat is becoming the “new normal.” COP31 preparations: Türkiye has signed the host agreement for COP31 in Antalya, and its COP31 presidency is pushing a Global Climate Action Agenda with a flagship electrification goal (rising to 35% of final energy demand met by electricity by 2035) plus targets on waste and building energy use. Bonn climate talks and access: Delegates gather in Bonn for UN climate negotiations, but civil society groups warn visa delays and shrinking civic space are making talks less accessible—especially for developing countries. Biodiversity under pressure: The EU is pressing Albania over a Kushner-linked luxury resort in protected wetlands, warning it must act without delay to align with EU nature and investment rules. Coastal risk in Ireland: A new report urges Ireland to start planning “managed retreat” from eroding, repeatedly flooded coasts, calling it an urgent crisis unfolding now. Marine life hit by fishing: A first-ever UK bycatch analysis estimates thousands of marine animals and seabirds die each year as collateral damage, with the true toll likely far higher. Natura 2000 enforcement: Bulgaria faces scrutiny after allegations of construction inside a protected Natura 2000 site near Varna, with the Commission saying member states must remedy any identified damage.