Renewables & Environment: A year-long French Polynesia study found floating solar (FPV) platforms in the Ra’iātea lagoon sharply cut light reaching the seabed, with stronger shading under higher-coverage designs, but no detectable change in lagoon water temperature. Climate & Maritime Rights: At the UN General Assembly, Pacific leaders pushed for legal stability of maritime boundaries as sea levels rise, backing state continuity so shrinking coastlines don’t erode fisheries, energy, and mineral rights. Energy Planning (OTEC): Global OTEC named a lead technical partner for a Bahamas feasibility study exploring how ocean thermal energy can support baseload power plus desalination and cooling, including potential data center integration. Regional Media Capacity: Fiji’s PM Rabuka launched a Pacific Centre for Communications and Journalism to train and support digital journalism, media literacy, and responsible AI use—aimed at stronger, more independent regional coverage. Drug Enforcement (Tonga): Tonga police charged three people over alleged methamphetamine importation, seizing about 200g of meth and devices, as a veteran journalist warned networks are becoming more organized and producing drugs locally. Tourism Spotlight (French Polynesia tie-in): Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 named French Polynesia’s ocean adventures to its Top 25 Experiences list, reinforcing the destination’s pull for culturally grounded, slower travel.