The article reflects on personal experiences and the impact of climate change, highlighting the challenges faced in Britain due to extreme weather events. Maddy shares a personal tragedy and the support received from family, friends, and the permaculture community. Despite the loss, there is a commitment to continue conserving the natural beauty of the Wood and promoting permaculture practices. The narrative emphasizes the importance of hope, resilience, and living in harmony with nature amidst global ecological, economic, and social challenges.

French utility EDF is focusing on climate change adaptation and maintenance improvements for its 900-MW series reactors as part of the fifth decennial general review. EDF plans to adopt a 50°C guideline for reactor functionality and address risks from severe weather conditions. The Autorite de Surete Nucleaire (ASN) is conducting a public consultation on EDF's proposals, which aim to extend reactor operations up to 60 years. EDF also plans a proactive maintenance approach, learning from past stress corrosion issues. The ASN will scrutinize equipment aging, particularly mechanical resistance, in its review.

The article discusses the efforts of the authors to create a sustainable and biodiverse environment in their woodland, emphasizing the importance of human intervention in maintaining biodiversity. They highlight their collaboration with local wildlife trusts and the positive impact on local wildlife, including tawny owls and various insects. The authors stress the need for systemic change in agriculture and food systems to promote organic, unprocessed food and reduce reliance on industrial agriculture. They advocate for small daily practices and learning from skilled individuals to drive a worldwide movement for environmental change.

The French Senate approved a government proposal to merge the Autorite de Surete Nucleaire and the Institut de Radioprotection et de Surete Nucleaire into a single regulatory body, the Autorite Independente de Surete Nucleaire et de Radioprotection, starting January 1. The Senate passed the bill with amendments to ensure the separation of decision-making and technical expertise and maintain public transparency. The bill, which aims to streamline regulatory processes amid plans to extend reactor lifespans and build new reactors, will now move to the Assemblee Nationale for further deliberation.

The Czech government has excluded Westinghouse from the tender to build a nuclear reactor at CEZ's Dukovany site, citing non-fulfillment of required conditions. Remaining bidders, Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP) and Electricite de France (EDF), are now asked to submit firm bids by mid-April. The government aims to optimize construction by potentially building up to four reactors, with a final decision expected by the end of June. The current financing model for one reactor is under investigation by the European Commission. The Czech Republic anticipates a significant increase in electricity demand, necessitating new power capacity.

The Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade and CEZ have signed an agreement to attract a gigafactory for electric car batteries to the Czech Republic, with state support potentially worth billions of koruna. CEZ is in talks with Volkswagen and LG as potential partners in the project, which could see the establishment of two battery manufacturing facilities. CEZ's CEO, Daniel Benes, highlighted the company's role as a developer and co-investor, with a potential site at the Prunerov coal power plant. CEZ is also involved in developing Europe's largest lithium mine at Cinovec, with plans to use locally mined lithium in the battery factory.

The Czech Republic has approved a modernization fund of at least Czech Crown 150 billion to drive energy transition and reduce coal dependency by 2030. The fund, expected to grow with rising carbon allowance prices, is the second largest in Europe after Poland's. It targets nine program areas, with significant allocations for renewables and centralized heating. The fund aims to meet 40% of emissions cuts and 30% of energy savings and renewables targets by 2030. The initiative has been positively received by Czech renewables associations and environmental law firms, highlighting its potential to boost solar, wind, and community energy projects.