El Niño Watch: Forecasts say El Niño has returned and could become record-strong by late fall 2026, with major knock-on effects for rainfall, storms, and marine life—Ecuador is already bracing for farm losses. Amazon Climate & Culture: A Nature study warns warming could wipe out about a third of Amazon plant species used by Indigenous communities, risking the loss of cultural knowledge as languages also decline. Genetics in the Americas: A large Indigenous DNA study finds three separate migration waves into South America and traces an unknown Asian “ghost” population still present in Indigenous genomes, including in Ecuador. Local Tech & Community: Ecuador’s tech scene gets a boost with Claro Ecuador expanding 5G to Ibarra and Portoviejo. Cacao Research: Peru’s wild cacao farms may contain four previously unmapped genetic varieties, potentially feeding a new wave of premium chocolate. Mining & Industry: Dynacor says its Galam pilot plant in Senegal has started ore production and is on track for first gold in August, while Ecuador’s Svetlana restart targets Q4 2026. Governance & Security Debate: A report argues Ecuador’s Executive Decree 424 deepens strategic subordination to U.S. military interests, reigniting sovereignty concerns. Volcano Science in Ecuador: A local event highlights geology education tied to the La Sals this Thursday. Wildlife in Ecuador: A spectacled bear sighting in Ecuador’s cloud forest is drawing attention to fragile mountain habitats.