WWII pollution risk: A new report warns that more than 8,500 potentially polluting WWII shipwrecks worldwide still hold an estimated 6 billion gallons of heavy fuel oil, with research suggesting peak leakage risk could rise this decade—an issue already seen in the Pacific through real-world leaks and emergency cleanups. Disaster readiness & tech: China’s AI-powered MAZU early warning system is set to expand to 30 developing countries in five years, aiming to improve multi-hazard alerts and impact-based forecasting. Local infrastructure & connectivity: BSP says it’s rolling out upgraded 4G EFTPoS terminals across the Pacific, with further upgrades planned for Solomon Islands this year. Police academy update: The Ministry of Police confirms Rove “site works” were geotechnical investigations only, with no immediate evictions, as relocation and house renovations continue. Maritime engineering: Pelican 3’s maiden voyage was cut short by a technical fault in its control/monitoring system; passengers were transferred and the vessel will undergo inspection before returning to service. Culture & heritage: Nambawan Haus Museum officially opens in Tulagi, restoring a historic residence as a flagship heritage tourism site. Climate diplomacy: Solomon Islands Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu co-chairs Pacific Climate Ministers Talanoa in Sydney to push a united COP31 agenda ahead of Pre-COP31 in Fiji. Education & research support: KOICA funds SINU to refurbish its Fisheries Department complex, boosting practical training and research capacity. Road resilience planning: Malaita communities are being consulted ahead of north and east road upgrades under SIRAP2, including drainage improvements and DBST sealing.