Thessaloniki gets ready for its metro launch in November
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
Tax authorities used the technology to collect millions in revenues
Undeclared private pools have now brought millions of euros in revenues to the French tax authorities thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This became possible with an experiment from last year which led to the discovery of as many as 20,000 hidden swimming pools, as BBC reports.
The finding has helped authorities to collect over 10 million euros more in fees. This is the case as the availability of a pool leads to a higher evaluation of the property, meaning – higher taxing according to national laws.
The AI experiment took place in October 2021 in nine regions of France: Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Bouches-du-Rhône, Ardèche, Rhône, Haute -Savoie, Vendée, Maine-et-Loire and Morbihan. A software, developed by technology giant Google and French consultancy Capgemini, together with air images over said territories led to the discovery of thousands of undeclared swimming pools.
Estimations of Le Parisien point to an average of 200 euros in taxes every year for a pool of 30 square metres.
Naturally, the trial has been deemed highly successful and tax authorities will now be expanding it to the entire territory of France. They are considering using it to discover other major improvements to people’s homes or villas, which can boost properties’ value, such as home extensions and patios, but most importantly – verandas.
Be as it may, the quest for undeclared pools is not just about filling the public budget. In the context of extreme drought and heatwaves, as Europe’s rivers are drying up, countries are considering ways to conserve and protect water resources.
Speaking on French media, Julien Bayou (greens) – an MP and regional representative from the region of Paris (Île-de-France) - considered banning new private swimming pools, even if only as a last resort, to save water. He also said that France needs to establish a different relationship with water.
Are you between 15 and 29 years old? Take a moment to complete a short survey on youth empowerment on this link.
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
That’s because the state has to spend money on updating the railway infrastructure rather than subsidizing the cost of the popular pass
Rethinking renewable energy sources for the urban landscape
The examples, compiled by Beyond Fossil Fuels, can inform and inspire communities and entrepreneurs that still feel trepidation at the prospect of energy transition
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
The 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns (ESCT) sets the stage for stronger cooperation between the EU, national and local level to fast track Europe's transition to climate neutrality.
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
Hostal de Pinós is located in the geographical centre of the autonomous region
Despite its church-y name, the district has long been known as the hangout spot for the artsy crowds
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
An interview with the Mayor of a Polish city that seeks to reinvent itself
An interview with the newly elected ICLEI President and Mayor of Malmö
A conversation with the Mayor of Lisbon about the spirit and dimensions of innovation present in the Portuguese capital