Global Scans · Homes · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: The number of smart homes is expected to grow further and by 2020 it is expected 46.2 million homes in the US and 44.9 million in Europe will be classed as smart homes. By 2022 there could be nearly 500 smart devices that can be connected to a smart home.

• [New] London has a new target of building 88,000 new homes a year, but the current plan, which expects all housing supply to come from brownfield sites, is delivering only around 40,000 a year. Kent Online
• [New] The American Economic Liberties Project today released a new policy agenda for antimonopoly champions in the 119th Congress to rein in concentrated corporate power and build a fairer economy for workers, small businesses, and families. American Economic Liberties Project
• [New] Poor housing conditions, limited access to education, and lack of job opportunities are significantly reducing life expectancy across the globe. The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News
• [New] Even if Washington were willing to support indefinite military occupation, escalating in Gaza would increase the risk to hostages, the strain on the IDF's reserves, and the discord Israel has faced at home and abroad. The Washington Institute
• [New] Samsung Wallet will enable users in the United States to seamlessly send money to friends and family using Tap to Transfer later this month. SamMobile
• [New] UK businesses will not need to set up a company in India or be a resident in India to supply their services in covered sectors. GOV.UK
• [New] The UK will agree provisions with India to endeavour to promote trade in environmental goods and services, which could help the UK boost exports in key green sectors, such as clean energy industries, and drive economic growth at home. GOV.UK
• [New] Social inequality remains one of the world's leading causes of premature death, with experts warning it is killing people on a grand scale - often through poor housing, limited education, and lack of job opportunities, rather than genetics or medical care. Insider Media Ltd
• [New] Around 6.3 million homes in England currently risk flooding, with an 88% increase in properties at risk from river - and sea - flooding compared to the previous year. Global Witness
• [New] Social conditions such as inadequate housing, education and job opportunities have a greater influence on health outcomes than genetics or medical care. EFE Noticias
• [New] Medical and long-term care for patients with dementia will cost the United States 232 billion this year, including 52 billion paid out of pocket by patients and their families. LONGECITY
• [New] Affordability remains a top concern for community leaders and groups like the California Business Roundtable, who warn that rising costs tied to energy policies - like cap-and-trade - could add financial burdens on families and small businesses. Yahoo Finance
• [New] A new administration in the White House, ongoing geopolitical tensions across the world, the ever-present pressure to decarbonize - the agenda for the energy transition in 2025 will be dominated by supply, security and policy. Spectra by MHI
• [New] Once operational, the Kelso Solar Project is expected to provide clean energy to thousands of homes and businesses, supporting Missouri's renewable energy targets and job creation efforts. GreentechLead
• [New] Spring marks a season when households across the UK take the opportunity to declutter, reorganise interiors, and refresh their living spaces. BusinessMole
• [New] Round 5 in the Celtic Sea is designed to accelerate the establishment of floating offshore wind in the UK, with the potential to drive new jobs and economic opportunity in Wales, South West England and across the UK and generate enough renewable energy to power more than 4M homes. New Civil Engineer
• [New] For the second quarter of 2025, banks expect a small rise in loan demand by firms and further increases for households, especially for housing loans. European Central Bank
• [New] For the second quarter of 2025, euro area banks expect a further tightening of credit standards for loans to firms, consumer credit and housing loans. European Central Bank
• [New] The RAF wrote in a statement that the new drone, called StormShroud, is now in operational service and is the first in a new family of autonomous systems that will fight alongside crewed platforms. Business Insider
• One in four homes could be at risk of flooding by 2050, as climate change pushes up sea levels and increases the intensity of storms. no2nuclearpower
• Other states are seeing moves against renewables projects: Arizona's House in February approved HB 2223, which would forbid wind farm projects within 12 miles of any property zoned for residential use. DLA Piper
• By 2025, clinical trials will evolve to become more accessible and efficient, with innovations like virtual trials and remote monitoring allowing patients to participate from home. Health Science Forum

Last updated: 10 May 2025