Whaling Restart in Iceland: Iceland resumes commercial whaling after a two-year pause, with Hvalur hf. setting sail again and a quota of 150 fin whales (plus up to 168 minke whales), reigniting animal-welfare and marine-conservation debate. Marine Life Incident: A pregnant fin whale was found dead on the bow of a cruise ship in southern Alaska, prompting a necropsy and an investigation into possible causes. Clean Fuel Push in Iceland: Syntholene says its geothermal-powered demonstration plant in Húsavík is complete, aiming to cut eSAF costs by 70% by using geothermal heat to produce green hydrogen. EU Climate Policy for Shipping: The North-East Atlantic is set to become a new Emission Control Area under MARPOL Annex VI, with rules entering into force in 2027 and affecting Iceland and nearby waters. Tourism Pressure & Off-Road Damage: South Iceland police investigate reports that French tourists drove off-road in fragile highland areas near Kötlujökull, with potential fines running into hundreds of thousands of ISK. Geothermal Development: NEVLEC in Iceland’s wider geothermal ecosystem is also in the spotlight as geothermal drilling plans move forward later this year (with preparation and approvals underway). Ocean Climate Signal: Scientists link the Atlantic “Cold Blob” to a weakening ocean current system, warning of possible knock-on effects for global weather patterns. Data Centres & Water/Energy: Mayors from 40 cities sign a pact to curb data-centre strain on power and water, with standards meant to guide permitting and planning.