EU Packaging Overhaul: New EU rules take effect on 12 August, tightening “forever chemicals” (PFAS) limits in food-contact packaging and pushing waste cuts, with traceability requirements for manufacturers. UK Water Stress: Britain’s drought is worsening, with contingency plans including rota water cuts and standpipes if conditions deteriorate further. Spain Wildfire Pressure: Eclipse tourism is colliding with fire risk; Spain is deploying 35,000 officers to prevent sparks during the total solar eclipse. France Consumer Protection: France bans unsolicited telemarketing calls without prior consent, with heavy fines for violators. Poland–Ukraine EU Gatekeeping: Poland says Ukraine must confront its Nazi-linked past before joining the EU, escalating political friction over historical narratives. Energy Corridor Push: US lawmakers urge support for the Great Sea Interconnector linking Greece, Cyprus and Israel as part of the India–Middle East–Europe corridor. Payments & Tech: Ryanair signs a five-year Google Cloud deal for Workspace and Gemini Enterprise to boost operations and resilience. Business Compliance: UK exporters are warned to prepare for PPWR pallet and transport packaging reuse targets starting in 2030.