War Powers Shift: Germany’s Merz government, with NATO chief Mark Rutte present, is moving ahead with sweeping “war laws,” including faster security preparation and a push to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029. Climate Accountability in Court: New Zealand’s landmark climate lawsuit (Mike Smith vs major emitters) is escalating as the High Court hears a challenge to the government’s rushed “tort liability” climate law changes. Environmental Rules Get a Rewrite: New Zealand’s Environmental Reporting Amendment Bill cleared its first reading, aiming to improve data quality and make reporting more useful for climate adaptation and resource decisions. Mining vs Forests: India’s environment ministry granted clearance for coal mining in Chhattisgarh’s Hasdeo forests, despite biodiversity concerns and earlier “no-go” expectations. Local Climate Reality Check: A New Zealand heatwave analysis warns homes aren’t ready for hotter summers, with cooling needs likely to strain electricity systems. Waterfront Pollution Cuts: Macau reports major waterfront water-quality gains after sewage interception projects and temporary treatment facilities. Corporate Pushback on Recycling: Environmental groups are calling for a boycott of Polar Beverages over alleged opposition to bottle-recycling updates. Jobs + Climate Transition: Nigeria’s ILO-backed “just transition” push is moving from policy to implementation to create green jobs through 2029.