Global Scans · Environment · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT:? Our natural environment is under ever-increasing threat. Landscape and ocean adaptation plus stabilizing biodiversity strategies will play an important role in maintaining global food productivity as climate changes. Evidence is mounting that any economic strategy that ignores carbon pollution will impose tremendous costs on the global economy and will result in fewer jobs and less economic growth over the long term. The global market for commercial "Earth observation" data is expected to hit $3.5 billion by 2024. Battles over environmental regulation could become particularly pointed in the coming years.

• [New] By addressing policy, infrastructure, and financing barriers, Iran can transform its vast renewable potential into a meaningful share of its energy mix-bolstering energy security, mitigating environmental impacts, and reclaiming a leading regional role in the global clean energy landscape. Aras Energy
• [New] Earth Action will soon launch the Packaging Data Hub alongside Systemiq as a single source of truth on packaging data, aimed at helping companies, governments, investors and other stakeholders make better data-based decisions. resource.co
• [New] Plastic pollution already poses significant business risks, with corporate liabilities projected to exceed $20 billion by 2030. resource.co
• [New] For the next 117 days, until the end of the year, the world will be in a state of 'plastic overshoot,' where all plastic waste generated is mismanaged and becomes environmental pollution. resource.co
• [New] Government bodies such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, Dubai Municipality, and ADNOC are spearheading initiatives that enhance workplace safety, reduce environmental risks, and promote eco-friendly practices. HealthManagement.org
• [New] As more people across the globe become interested in animal welfare and the One Health policy highlights the interface between human beings, animals, and the environment, new opportunities are arising in the animal biotechnology industry. Custom Market Insights
• [New] European and Japanese mayors of cities that are at the forefront of the green transition will showcase successful environmental policies that deliver tangible results for citizens. Environment
• [New] Two geoengineering techniques have been suggested to re-grow Arctic sea ice, which could help to keep the Earth cool. Frontiers for Young Minds
• [New] One way that people think they could stop climate change is by stopping some sunlight from reaching the Earth. Frontiers for Young Minds
• [New] Satellite monitoring: Near real-time monitoring of mine sites, environmental impacts, and infrastructure via satellite improves operational efficiency, reduces risks, and supports regulatory compliance. Farmonaut
• [New] Kariyarra traditional owners recently appealed the environmental approval of Northern Star Resources' billion-dollar Hemi gold mine, citing fears its wastewater could jeopardise sacred waterways. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• [New] Rebalance Earth, in partnership with Treeconomy Ltd, will use satellite tools to support smarter investment decisions in nature-based carbon projects like reforestation. GOV.UK
• [New] MakeSense Technology will apply Earth observation data to generate safe, high-precision walking routes tailored for visually impaired people. GOV.UK
• [New] If we have any hope of reducing built environment emissions by 70% by 2035, regulating and capping embodied carbon emissions (like France, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands have already done) will be a much-needed next step. The Guardian
• [New] The UK Government's Invest 2035 industrial strategy emphasises the importance of digital and technological sectors, aiming to foster an environment conducive to innovation and investment. Elizabeth Michael
• Innovative environmental management, stricter regulations, and disruptive technologies put the global sector on a more sustainable path. Farmonaut
• Around the world, governments and scientists are rethinking the role of dams, with the U.N. and environmental agencies warning that new construction often causes more harm than good. Discovery CRE
• Under the existing policy framework, including the EU's Battery Directive and various U.S. state laws, proper disposal and recycling of hazardous batteries are required to reduce environmental and human exposure to potential health risks. Research and Markets
• Employers are warning about a major shift from 2025 onwards: environmental stewardship is expected to be one of the fastest-growing skill demands globally. Richard James Rogers

Last updated: 27 September 2025