Heatwave Toll and Records: A severe heatwave is hitting the US and Europe, with hundreds reported dead and new temperature records falling across countries including Slovakia, alongside major health and infrastructure strain. EU Renewables Milestone: Eurostat data shows the EU hit a historic high, with 45.5% of electricity from renewables in the first half of 2026, though progress varies sharply by country (Slovakia at 17.2%). Plastic Packaging Up: A new European Commission study finds plastic packaging rose 11% between 2011 and 2025, reaching 98 kg per capita in 2024, with most plastic tied to food and beverage. Slovakia Battery Push: Slovak Academy of Sciences researchers join the SUNFLOWERS project to develop safer, longer-lasting, more recyclable battery materials, including new anode options that could reduce reliance on graphite. EV Charging Across Slovakia: OMV Petrom completed a €40m EU-backed project adding 384 ultra-fast EV chargers across Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia along a key transport corridor. Green Hydrogen Compliance Gap: EU green hydrogen rules are unevenly implemented, risking a patchwork market as countries miss RED III hydrogen transposition deadlines. Counter-Drone Funding: NATO approved a $40bn counter-drone initiative to scale detection and defense against low-cost UAV threats. Climate Policy Fight: US oil and gas interests are pushing to delay EU methane rules, arguing supply risks as Europe tries to tighten climate pollution controls.