ECB Rate Rise: The ECB is expected to lift rates by 0.25% to 2.25%, a shift that will feed straight into higher mortgage and household borrowing costs across the euro area. Data Centres & Power Strain: A new UN report highlights how AI and even “tone” in AI prompts can drive electricity use, intensifying the fight over grid capacity as data centres expand. Heat Pump Reality Check (Cyprus): A European Commission JRC study says Cyprus’ homes use far more energy for cooling than heating, and replacing oil/gas boilers with electric heat pumps could cut energy use and CO2 sharply. Protected Nature (Balkans): UNESCO has designated Lake Shkodra a Biosphere Reserve, boosting protection for a key bird migration corridor. World Environment Day: Global climate warnings are getting louder as countries mark June 5 with action campaigns and policy pushes. Energy Transition vs Cost of Living (UK/Ireland): Rising bills and energy demand pressures are back in focus, with households feeling the squeeze as policy and markets shift. Bitcoin Backlash: A petition in Europe calls for banning bitcoin over energy use, reigniting the climate vs crypto debate. Water & Pollution (Moldova): EU officials visited the Dniester to discuss pollution linked to Russia’s war and continued environmental cooperation. Protests Over Zvërnec (Albania): Demonstrations against the Zvërnec project spread across Europe and the US, with protesters citing threats to heritage and sensitive ecosystems.