Water Testing Upgrade: Palau EQPB’s Water Quality Laboratory was recertified for microbiological testing and gained its first water chemistry certification (chlorine residual, turbidity, pH), with new analyst qualifications under the U.S. Freely Associated States program. Marine Science in Schools: Koror students learned how coral reefs “speak” through underwater sounds, with University of Exeter research showing how reef acoustics can support marine health monitoring and noise-reduction from boats. Coral Reef Response: Australia backed Palau’s crown-of-thorns starfish cull, helping remove 2,200+ starfish and training local partners to monitor future outbreaks. Coral Restoration Partnerships: PICRC hosted international coral reef partners for field visits covering coral nurseries, Jellyfish Lake, and marine protected areas to strengthen restoration and conservation work. Community Health Tech Pilot: Palau launched a wearable-based health-monitoring pilot for 25 residents, designed to alert family and a clinic when inactivity or health concerns are detected. Energy Efficiency Check: A campus cooling-system inspection found failed equipment and pumps running at full speed, pointing to avoidable electricity and diesel costs. Ocean Observation Funding: OceanEye’s new alliance secured major pledges to expand global ocean monitoring, supporting weather, climate, navigation, and coastal resilience. UN Sea-Level Statehood: The UN advanced a resolution and declaration affirming that rising seas shouldn’t automatically strip states of sovereignty or UN membership, with maritime zones remaining stable.