Latvian parties diverge over green policies ahead of elections

Latvian parties are divided over wind farms, forest protection and climate policy, an analysis by LSM’s Latvian Television programme Vides fakti found.

The programme examined the environmental pledges of six parties whose ratings exceeded 4% in an August SKDS poll. The Latvian Fund for Nature said only two parties had substantial proposals on environmental issues, which it described as a secondary concern for politicians. Its recommendations appeared in only two party programmes.

The National Alliance says environmental protection and renewable energy must not undermine the economy or competitiveness. It supports sustainable agriculture, forestry and fisheries, as well as investment in modernisation and energy efficiency. MP Jānis Eglītis said climate policy should be assessed for its social and economic effects, adding that economic growth and environmental action needed to be balanced.

The Progressives support the green transition, stronger forest protection and climate targets. New Unity says it will continue the green transition and develop renewable energy and climate neutrality. The United List wants to adjust the green transition so it does not harm the economy and proposes nuclear energy.

Latvia First criticises the green transition and opposes wind farms, while also raising the possibility of nuclear energy. Sovereign Power and New Latvians take the strongest critical stance on the green transition and the development of wind and solar power.