The Cleddau river in the UK, once a haven for wildlife and recreation, is now heavily polluted with industrial waste, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff. Local residents and environmental campaigners are frustrated with the lack of enforcement and action from UK environment regulators. First Milk and Welsh Water are identified as major contributors to the pollution, with both companies acknowledging the issue but facing criticism for not doing enough to resolve it. The situation reflects broader systemic failures in monitoring, governance, and investment in river water quality.

A new report by the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew reveals that nearly half of all plant species are at risk of extinction, with unregistered species facing even higher threats. The report underscores the critical role of plants and fungi in Earth's ecosystems and calls for increased research and conservation efforts, particularly in South America, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. It also advocates for citizen science to aid in the discovery and protection of unknown species. Despite the alarming findings, there is hope that scientific research can help safeguard these species.

In Bakhmut, Ukraine, soldiers of the 57th brigade undergo intense training with live ammunition and real explosions to prepare for frontline combat against Russian forces. The training includes navigating trenches, clearing areas, and handling psychological and physical pressures. Major Kostiantyn Tsymbal and instructor 'Dok' lead the exercises, emphasizing the importance of readiness and resilience. Despite modest gains in Ukraine's counteroffensive, Russian troops remain well-fortified, making progress slow. Artillery units continue to support the infantry, with soldiers like Yevhen Kardan operating Soviet-made mobile artillery cannons. The ongoing conflict around Bakhmut remains fierce, with both sides refusing to yield.

Field hospitals near the frontline in Ukraine are crucial for treating injured soldiers, with medics working tirelessly under challenging conditions. Dr. Denys Sholom, a former pediatric anesthetist, now leads a medical team in Bakhmut, providing specialized care. Nurses like Anastasia and Tanya face emotional and physical tolls as they handle severe injuries daily. Despite the hardships, their dedication to saving lives remains unwavering.

Nikopol faces dual threats from potential nuclear fallout due to its proximity to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and daily shelling by Russian soldiers. The destruction of the Kakhovka dam has exacerbated water supply issues. Residents like Luibov Riabka and her family live in constant fear, with many having already fled the city. Despite the dangers, the Interpipe Niko Tube factory continues to operate, providing essential employment to the remaining populace. The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted logistics and export capabilities, particularly affecting the factory's ability to supply metal pipes globally.

In Kherson, Ukraine, emergency service teams face the dangerous task of clearing mines and explosives left by Russian forces. Despite the withdrawal of Russian troops last November, the city remains under constant shelling, making it unsafe for residents to return. Serhii Siroshtan, leader of a pyrotechnic unit, and his team are frequently called to defuse or remove explosives, a perilous job that has already claimed the lives of several team members. Oleksandr Prokudin, head of Kherson's Regional Military Administration, advises against returning to the city due to the ongoing danger.

Kherson, a city in Ukraine, is grappling with severe flood damage and the threat of landmines following the partial demolition of the Kakhovka Dam. The Ukrainian Army's efforts to reclaim the city from Russian forces have left it largely empty and under constant shelling. Volunteers like Yevhen Kulishov are aiding in the cleanup, while residents such as Lidia Pudgabiuk and Olena Checkun face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, outlines the region's primary challenges: ongoing Russian shelling, de-mining, and long-term reconstruction.

A gunner on the frontline outside Donetsk expresses confusion and sadness over the conflict between former Soviet allies. Ukrainian artillery units, stationed in makeshift bunkers, continue to shell Donetsk while facing a larger Russian force. The Ukrainian army, composed of veterans from the Soviet era, is in dire need of modern artillery and tanks to counter the Russian advantage in numbers. The conflict, the largest in Europe since 1945, sees both sides using Soviet-era weapons, highlighting the ongoing frustrations and challenges faced by Ukrainian forces.

Kramatorsk, once part of the Donetsk region, now lies close to the front line between Russian and Ukrainian forces and has experienced bombings, including a missile strike on a train station that killed 61. The city's economy is uncertain, with most manufacturing halted and businesses adapting to serve a war economy. Olena Klimoshenko has reopened her restaurant, primarily serving military personnel, while Coffee Shop No.1 remains open despite curfews. Tens of thousands have left Kramatorsk, leaving behind quiet, often empty squares. Missile attacks continue to threaten residents, with one recent strike destroying an apartment block. Survivors like Alla Tatarovska, a former factory worker, recount their harrowing experiences.

Izium, a city in northeast Ukraine, requires approximately $2 billion for reconstruction after being 80% damaged over the last year. Six months following the retreat of Russian troops, the local economy and infrastructure, including businesses, a hospital, schools, and heating stations, need rebuilding. Business owner Anatoliy Zhidkov estimates $400,000 in damages and struggles with a reduced client base. The local authority, represented by Valeriy Marchenko, prioritizes creating work opportunities and rebuilding, with the expectation of financial support from the Ukrainian government. The full cost of reconstruction is undetermined, and the ongoing conflict continues to strain Ukraine's financial resources.