PFAS Health Alarm (UK): Blood tests commissioned by lawyers found high levels of cancer-linked “forever chemical” PFOA in residents near the former ICI Hillhouse site in Thornton-Cleveleys, with 69.4% in a high-risk category; authorities are investigating historic contamination at AGC Chemicals’ Hillhouse operations. PFAS Health Alarm (UK, second report): A separate report reiterates elevated PFOA in Thornton, naming contaminated areas including an effluent pit and allotments, as regulators confirm multiple contaminated sites. Refining & Chemicals Leadership (Qatar): TotalEnergies appointed Sameh Kokash as Vice President Refining & Chemicals Qatar and Vice President Business Development & AOBO Gas, overseeing downstream interests across QAPCO, Qatofin, RLOC and Laffan Refineries. Mega Refinery Push (Kenya): Engineers India and EIL secured major roles tied to Dangote’s planned 700,000 bpd Kenya refinery and petrochemical complex, with contracts reported above $450m. Materials Testing Acceleration (Germany): Berlin startup ecopals launched Simpal, a virtual lab using digital simulation to speed materials development and cut reliance on long physical testing cycles. Industrial Safety Incident (India): Fire and explosions at a Jodhpur chemical factory injured 14 firefighters during dousing efforts. Agrochemical Use (Africa): CABI-backed digital advisory tools are being rolled out to help farmers apply pesticides correctly and reduce hazardous chemical use. Trade & Policy (EU/UK packaging): Coverage highlights how the EU BPA ban is forcing packaging firms to shift away from BPA-based epoxy linings and coatings.