Latvia’s progress towards agricultural GHG mitigation
2015
Popluga, D., Latvia Univ. of Agriculture, Jelgava (Latvia). Faculty of Economics and Social Development | Naglis-Liepa, K., Latvia Univ. of Agriculture, Jelgava (Latvia). Faculty of Economics and Social Development | Lenerts, A., Latvia Univ. of Agriculture, Jelgava (Latvia). Faculty of Economics and Social Development
Climate change brings in itself challenges and changes that are urgent for agricultural production both in Latvia and in the entire world. In this context agriculture plays a large role in causing the greenhouse effect and holds a large potential for climate change mitigation. This article aims to evaluate Latvia’s progress towards agricultural GHG emissions mitigation. In order to meet the set aim, the research focuses on two key aspects: an evaluation of the present situation in Latvia regarding GHG emissions in agriculture; and analysis of agricultural sector policy in the field of GHG emissions mitigation. Research results shows that agricultural emissions (mainly from crop and livestock production) in Latvia are the second largest emitter of the total greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 22%. This is a quite alarming indicator, as Latvia ranks third in the EU in terms of proportion of agriculture in total GHG emissions. According to statistical data, the crop sector is presently the largest GHG emitter. However, in order to meet international commitments, management practices for reducing these emissions are required. The research results showed that Latvian agricultural policy envisages number of activities which aims to reduce GHG emissions from agricultural practices.
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