Climate Risk: The UN weather agency warns the hottest year on record is almost certain within the next five years, with an 86% chance that at least one year from 2025–2029 beats 2024 and a 75% chance the 2026–2030 average tops 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels—raising odds of harsher heatwaves, storms, floods and droughts. Humanitarian Access: The UN says delivery of aid to Afghanistan is facing growing obstacles, as disruptions to transport and port restrictions shrink food stocks for malnourished mothers and children. Local Environment & Health: Kabul Municipality placed 95+ waste bins across 22 districts ahead of Eid al-Adha, urging residents to use designated disposal spots to reduce pollution and disease risk from animal waste. Biodiversity & Science: A study using DNA from a 160-year-old museum specimen finds the “Himalayan pit viper” actually includes five separate species, highlighting hidden wildlife diversity across Pakistan and Afghanistan. Sustainable Livelihoods: In Kandahar, UNODC-backed beekeeping is helping farmers earn legal income and may reduce pressure to return to illicit crops. Child Labor: An investigation in Herat describes children working in unsafe conditions linked to drug addiction and crime, with limited access to schooling for children in migrant areas.