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

• [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
• [New] The development of health-focused special economic zones is expected to attract global healthcare providers and boost regional competitiveness in medical tourism. World Health Expo Insights
• Synopsis: Satellite cities in India are rapidly emerging as powerful economic and real estate hubs, complementing their metros by offering affordable living, strong connectivity, and abundant development potential. Trade Brains Money
• The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has cut its 2025 and 2026 growth forecasts for the Mexican economy. Mexico News Daily
• Successful unconventional resource development could fundamentally transform Mexico's energy security profile by reducing import dependency, diversifying supply sources, and providing domestic production capacity that enhances negotiating positions in international energy markets. Discovery Alert
• Economic analysis of Mexico's energy supply situation reveals multiple factors that support reconsideration of unconventional resource development, including import dependency costs, industrial competitiveness concerns, and economic development opportunities in resource-rich regions. Discovery Alert
• The continued success of Karakol Ski Resort will support sustainable tourism development in Kyrgyzstan. Travel And Tour World
• The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank committed $5 billion to support Turkey's climate resilience and sustainable development projects from 2025 to 2027. Belfer Center
• Recently, BI focused on the development of low-cost national payments systems such as Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard payments that gives favorable treatment to Indonesian banks, serves as an impediment to foreign investment, and may introduce security risks. United States Department of State
• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) raised its 2025 global economic growth forecast to 3.2%, up from the 2.9% predicted in June. AXA IM UK
• With transport demand set to more than double by 2050, choices we make this decade, can unlock sustainable development pathways. UN DESA VOICE

Last updated: 19 December 2025