Nuclear power race: A new analysis says China could overtake the U.S. as the world’s top nuclear generator within five years, driven by rapid reactor builds and surging AI-linked electricity demand, while U.S. growth lags on cost and regulation. Oil & climate risk: Markets stayed “orderly” even as Iran–U.S. tensions and Hormuz disruption headlines rattled crude prices, showing how supply adaptation is muting worst-case spikes. Food vs fuel pressure: With oil near $100, biofuel demand is forecast to surge—raising concerns that tighter fuel and fertilizer supply chains could worsen food affordability. Plastic health warning: Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry warned that non-standard plastic utensils and heated food containers may release chemicals and microplastics linked to long-term health harms. Data centers under scrutiny: More than 500 U.S. groups urged Congress to pause new data centers, citing energy use, water strain, higher bills, and climate impacts. Recycling safety: Tasmania lifted a processing ban for a metal recycler after elevated lead levels triggered shutdowns, contingent on monitoring and controls. Policy & justice: New Mexico’s environment chief warned federal funding cuts could weaken state oversight of nuclear sites, including Los Alamos. Waste-to-energy backlash: Civil society at ADB’s forum urged the bank to stop funding incineration and “false solutions” like RDF and chemical recycling.