England drought threatens food security 

Britain’s farming sector is facing mounting pressure from drought, extreme heat, and repeated weather disruptions, raising concerns about possible food shortages and the long-term viability of domestic agriculture. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has warned that exceptionally dry conditions across parts of England could reduce supplies of certain foods as another heatwave pushes temperatures above …

European rivers hit historic lows

Historic low water levels across the Rhine, Danube and Po are intensifying concerns about the effects of climate change on Europe’s economy, agriculture, ecosystems and drinking water supplies. Following severe heatwaves and wildfires earlier in the summer, prolonged drought has caused European rivers to shrink dramatically, disrupting transportation and exposing riverbeds that are normally submerged.

AI boosts soil health across Europe

Artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool for improving soil health, offering Europe new ways to address one of its most significant environmental and agricultural challenges. Although AI often raises concerns about employment, misinformation, and transparency, scientists argue that its application to soil management demonstrates how the technology can deliver clear public benefits. Healthy …

Germany renewable curtailment rises 

Europe’s transition to renewable energy is accelerating, with renewables supplying 45.5% of the European Union’s electricity during the first quarter of 2026, according to Eurostat. Wind power accounted for the largest share of renewable generation at 44.9%, followed by hydropower at 28% and solar at 17.3%. Rising oil and natural gas prices linked to the …

European heatwave disrupts energy and transport

Europe’s intense early summer heatwave is disrupting energy production, transportation, and supply chains across the continent, adding new economic pressures at a time when energy markets are already strained by the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Record-breaking temperatures in Germany and France since June have reduced rainfall, lowered major river levels, and increased water temperatures. The …

Hybrid hydropower unlocks Europe’s grid capacity

A new report from energy think tank Ember highlights the potential to combine wind and solar generation with existing hydropower facilities across Europe, helping increase renewable electricity production without requiring equivalent expansion of transmission infrastructure. The analysis estimates that hydropower plants in seven European Union countries could accommodate around 25 GW of additional wind and …

EU ETS reform sparks climate debate

The European Commission has proposed significant reforms to the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS), Europe’s flagship carbon market, aiming to balance ambitious climate targets with concerns about industrial competitiveness and energy costs. The review comes as Europe experiences increasingly severe climate impacts, including record-breaking heatwaves and destructive wildfires, while remaining committed to reducing greenhouse …

European solar power saves billions

Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are highlighting the growing economic and strategic importance of European solar power as Europe seeks to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. The conflict involving Iran has increased uncertainty in global energy markets, driving up both oil and natural gas prices. Brent crude oil, the international benchmark, …

EU innovation faces a funding gap 

Europe remains one of the world’s leading centers for scientific research, producing groundbreaking discoveries, highly skilled researchers, and innovative entrepreneurs. However, according to former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta, the continent continues to struggle with transforming scientific excellence into globally competitive businesses. He argues that success in today’s technology-driven economy depends not only on inventing …

EU solar manufacturing challenges

Italy’s first renewable energy auction restricted to solar projects built without Chinese-manufactured equipment has highlighted both Europe’s determination to diversify its clean energy supply chains and the significant challenges involved. In December 2025, Italy awarded more than 1.1 gigawatts of solar capacity across 88 projects, with winning bids averaging €66.38 per megawatt-hour, around 17% higher …