OECD Environmental Performance Reviews: Latvia 2019
![image of OECD Environmental Performance Reviews: Latvia 2019 image of OECD Environmental Performance Reviews: Latvia 2019](https://assets.oecdcode.org/covers/100/2cb03cdd.jpg)
Latvia has come a long way in improving its environmental performance and the well-being of the population. Large amounts of investment have helped increase the use of renewables, improve energy efficiency of homes, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and extend access to water and waste services. However, convergence with more advanced OECD economies is far from being accomplished. Forestry and agriculture play a key economic role, but exert increasing pressures on biodiversity. Mainstreaming biodiversity considerations into economic development policies should be a priority. Accelerating the transition towards a low-carbon and circular economy will require major investment in sustainable infrastructure, more waste prevention and recycling and stronger economic instruments.
This is the first Environmental Performance Review of Latvia. It evaluates progress towards sustainable development and green growth, with special features on waste and circular economy, and biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
Executive summary
Latvia’s environmental performance and the well-being of the population have improved considerably since the mid-2000s, in a context of sustained economic growth and declining population. Implementation of the European Union (EU) environmental acquis and major investment have been key drivers of progress. However, more needs to be done to ensure environmental convergence with more advanced OECD economies. Poverty, inequality and regional disparity remain high. The post-2020 development planning cycle provides an opportunity to better align environmental and economic development objectives.
- Click to access:
-
Click to download PDF - 504.84KBPDF