Our Scans · (ZY.4.07) Development Studies · Weekly Summary

• [New] With transport demand set to more than double by 2050, mobility-related choices made in the coming decade can lock in sustainable development pathways. United Nations
• [New] Emerging economies are grappling with an annual shortfall of USD 3.7 trillion in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) finance required to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The Financial Express
• [New] The BRICS economic shift represents a move toward more diversified funding sources, and officials will assess the New Development Bank's role in supporting South Africa economy growth through infrastructure development over the next year through site visits and stakeholder consultations. BRICS
• [New] China's economic development plan for 2026 focuses on sustainable growth, advanced technology, and deepening reform, aiming for around 5% GDP growth, with projections of approximately $20 trillion. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] African Mining Development Coordination: World Bank's Minerals for Climate Action program targets $2.5+ billion in financing for sustainable mining projects across Africa from 2024-2030, partially aligned with MSP ESG standards and governance requirements. Discovery Alert
• [New] Countries like Argentina, Morocco, Chile, and Peru gain access to development finance coordination and technology transfer opportunities in exchange for compliance with environmental and social governance frameworks. Discovery Alert
• [New] The global crypto policy landscape entering 2026 reveals stark differences in regulatory approaches reflecting diverse national priorities, economic development stages, and political constraints. CoinRank
• [New] For investors, 2026 represents a critical window to capitalize on SMR development, driven by urgent capacity gaps, policy tailwinds, and a rapidly evolving energy security imperative. Ainvest
• [New] If development and certification progress as planned, electric flying taxis could become a practical option for airport transfers within the next decade, offering a new mode of sustainable, time-saving travel for London's transport network. Manning & Co
• [New] The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 delivers a sobering verdict: only 18% of SDG targets are on track to be achieved by 2030. Culture Policy Room
• [New] By 2030, China aims to turn artificial intelligence into one of the main drivers of economic and social development, relying on increasing computing power, expanding the developer ecosystem and large-scale implementation in key industries. Chelidze Group
• [New] The evolution of Greenland rare earth potential reflects broader themes in global resource security, technological sovereignty, and sustainable development. Discovery Alert
• [New] The year 2025 has proven to be a pivotal period for infrastructure development globally, defined by the convergence of multiple forces including technological disruption, climate imperatives, geopolitical tensions, and evolving economic conditions. MANE
• [New] A UNDP report focused on the Asia-Pacific region warned that rapid AI adoption in wealthier economies could threaten millions of jobs in lower-income countries unless governments invest in skills development, social safety nets, and ethical AI deployment. AI 4 Planet - All about AI
• [New] Tighter regulations focusing on AI safety and governance are predicted to be pivotal in 2025, with discussions shifting towards responsible and sustainable AI practices addressing transparency, bias, privacy, and the environmental impact of AI development. FinancialContent
• [New] Continued investment in research, bio based material development, and energy efficient production technologies will ensure that polyurethane dispersions remain a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing in the coming decade. openpr
• [New] Stronger policy coordination among DC, Maryland, Virginia, and federal agencies could ensure that economic development does not outpace water system capacity. FoxesSellFaster.com
• [New] As the Commonwealth continues to advance efforts toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, corruption remains a significant barrier to achieving sustainable and inclusive development. Commonwealth Lawyers Association
• [New] The expanded funding will further strengthen catalytic climate-resilient projects such as aquaculture development in Kenya and initiatives that boost food security and create livelihoods for smallholder farmers. fundsforNGOs News - Grants and Resources for Sustainabi
• [New] Without faster progress, full-service coverage without financial hardship will remain out of reach for many: the global SCI is projected to reach only 74 out of 100 by 2030, with nearly 1 in 4 people worldwide still facing financial hardship at the end of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) era. World Health Organization: WHO
• [New] Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification programme depends substantially on oil revenue generation to fund alternative economic sector development, creating tension between short-term revenue optimization and long-term competitive positioning. Discovery Alert
• [New] Family-owned Piatt Companies, based in western Pennsylvania, is developing the major, mixed-use, sustainable development project on 15 acres of post-industrial brownfield sites and expects it to be completed in 2029. PA Department of Community & Economic Development

Last updated: 26 December 2025