May marks second-hottest on record globally
EU scientists confirmed that May 2026 was the second-hottest May on record globally, continuing a trend of near-record temperatures driven by climate change combined with El Niño conditions. The data comes from the Copernicus Climate Change Service and adds pressure on negotiators ahead of the COP30 climate summit, which Turkey will host. The persistent heat has contributed to drought conditions across multiple continents and raised concerns about agricultural output.
Indonesia floods kill 7% of critically endangered orangutans
A report released this week revealed that deadly floods and landslides in Indonesia's Sumatra island last year wiped out at least 7% of the total population of the Tapanuli orangutan, one of the most endangered great ape species on the planet. The species, already critically endangered with fewer than 800 individuals remaining, now faces an even more uncertain future. Conservation groups called for emergency protection measures and improved disaster preparedness in orangutan habitats.
Hungary's Lake Velence drying up as World Cup climate costs mount
Hungary's Lake Velence, a popular tourist destination and wildlife habitat, is rapidly drying up due to prolonged drought and water mismanagement. The shrinking lake threatens local tourism-dependent economies and biodiversity. Separately, the 2026 World Cup's climate impact came under scrutiny as Reuters reported that emissions from the expanded tournament — spanning the US, Canada, and Mexico — are expected to soar, with the carbon footprint of fan travel alone projected to be larger than previous World Cups combined.