Andscape

The rapid expansion of data centers across the United States is drawing attention for how it is transforming physical landscapes, with large facilities appearing in rural and suburban areas to meet growing demand for cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Commenters are weighing the economic benefits against concerns over energy use, water consumption and effects on local communities.

Employers across the European Union are preparing for the EU Pay Transparency Directive, which requires companies to report gender pay gaps and justify pay differences between men and women. Law firm Morgan Lewis has published guidance on how businesses should navigate the new rules, highlighting compliance challenges and the broader push toward equal pay for equal work across member states.

NASCIO's annual survey of state chief information officers finds that technology leaders across US state governments anticipate a more turbulent technology landscape ahead. The report, covered by StateScoop, points to growing uncertainty in how states plan and manage their technology priorities, though detailed findings from the survey have not yet been widely reported.

Immigration enforcement is tightening labor supply in the building industry, where foreign-born workers make up a large share of trades like roofing, drywall and carpentry. Dealers, contractors and builders report project delays, rising labor costs and slower home construction as workers stay off job sites, prompting calls for policy changes and workforce development.

A new industry analysis examines how rising consumer demand for gluten-free products is intersecting with evolving food regulations worldwide. As more shoppers adopt gluten-free diets for health or lifestyle reasons, regulators are tightening labeling standards and testing requirements. Industry observers say manufacturers face pressure to prove authenticity and safety, with clearer rules potentially reshaping product formulations and marketing across the global gluten-free food market.