Articles

The state earned handsomely. A conversation with Jānis Apsītis, President of the Latvian Timber Producers and Traders Association and Chairman of the Board of SIA “Kurekss”

European Union unveils its new bioeconomy strategy

Study – constant change fuels employee burnout and holds back company growth

Latvia's highest business awards presented – the Export and Innovation Award

2026 budget adopted – priority on driving growth and supporting businesses

CapMan Natural Capital sells forest assets in Latvia and Lithuania to Inter IKEA Group

Land use needs a consensus

“Laflora” concludes the 2025 peat extraction season

Forest sector awards “Zelta čiekurs 2025” presented

Sowing and planting: more than 14.7 thousand hectares of state forest regenerated this year

Insights from forest sector bioeconomy experts – a major talking point in Brussels

Latvia's economy is bouncing back convincingly from the upheavals of recent years

European Entrepreneurial Region Award 2027

The use of lead in ammunition. An overview of the issue and the latest developments

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze proposes changes to the regulatory framework to ensure fair competition

“Latvijas valsts meži Art Scholarship 2025” awarded

Survey: in Latvia it is mainly young people who think “green”

Ask your drainage engineer!

Study “PeatTransform” launched – towards climate neutrality for Latvia's peat industry

Swedish energy company "Växjö Energi" receives support from the European Investment Bank

Germany's spruce growing stock will fall by 75% by 2100. The timber industry is switching to pine

Join the European initiative “For 3 billion more trees”!

35th anniversary of the revival of the scouting and guiding movement!

Fear of oversight is a good cover for not making any unnecessary effort and for doing little thinking. An interview with Mārtiņš Cimermanis, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Centre

In defending local companies, the government takes a punch to the face

Despite earlier announcements, COP30 failed to secure greater commitments

China is transforming its forestry sector to ensure sustainable management

The Tropical Forest Forever Facility has been established. Protecting and restoring forests will require more than 66.7 billion US dollars a year

Resurfacing completed on the “Ložmetējkalna ceļš” road

Freedom is not an inheritance – it is a mission

European timber producers join forces to halt the trade in Russian “blood timber” in Europe

Alaska's forestry industry begins to recover

“Latvijas valsts meži” agrees on cooperation with the State Education Development Agency

Crops in Zemgale have suffered most in recent years – 11 million euros paid out in insurance claims

Land sectors can make an additional contribution to Latvia

Cutting red tape: the European Commission's new package of laws governing the digital environment

Military mobility legislative package unveiled

State Audit Office sets new audit topics for 2026

"Laflora" head Uldis Ameriks receives the LDDK Annual Award in the category "Economist of the Year 2025"

Stora Enso to create Europe's largest forestry fund

Carbon capture and utilisation, or how to turn carbon emissions into valuable resources

The so-called gold standard of forestry will try to rid itself of fraudulent schemes

On Latvia's birthday

AS “Latvijas valsts meži” and the company trade union “LVM Cilvēkam un Mežam” have concluded a collective agreement

European Tree of the Year in Latvia 2025

The German question. How can an advanced industrial economy be run successfully under the new conditions?

Time to renew interest in the technical professions

One in four people in Latvia forced to give up some products because of rising food prices

EY study: the main priorities of Latvian society – health, economic security and stable work

Baltic region's largest indoor micro-class tactical drone training centre opens with support from Latvijas Finieris

One million euros allocated to forest damage prevention

The forest sector's contribution to the climate. Europe

On Lāčplēsis Day

Transporting Russian timber has been made difficult by sharply rising costs

Despite sanctions, Russian timber is reaching new markets in the Middle East

Moderate inflation in October was driven by lower food price pressure and seasonal effects

COP30 to decide on forestry rules for the UN-managed carbon market

This year's most active "Latvian forest adventurers" revealed

Kristīne Rapa “Aspects of employment law in the forestry sector”

Unveiling of the information plaque dedicated to the bus station's red oak

More than 6,000 participants took part in the “LVM Forest Expeditions” this autumn

EU countries reach agreement on 2040 target, Latvia's interests taken into account

Chaos must not be allowed... calls in the European Union to halt implementation of the Deforestation Regulation

“Mars” invests 5 million US dollars in innovative agricultural science

Forestry Conference for Forest Owners 2025

Baltic survey: employees with children feel their careers are held back, childless colleagues feel overloaded

Manufacturing output posts record growth for recent years

Latvia's forest sector – a backbone of export capacity with high added value

If land is a value in Latvia, why is it not put to good use?

Through cooperation between “Laflora” and the University of Latvia, Latvia becomes the first country in the world to use a new-generation CO₂ measurement device

Will FSC act over the billion-dollar fraud in its own certification system?

The joint-stock company “Latvijas valsts meži” has been managing the state forests for 26 years

The 2026 budget: with fewer funds, the European Union cannot achieve more

Winners of the Ministry of Agriculture's "Sējējs 2025" competition honoured

Rising costs and conditions in timber markets cut “Södra” profits

Gloomy mood in Brussels. Climate policy is going into reverse

Hunters invited to take part in survey on coexistence with large carnivores

The Nature Conservation Agency invites bids in auctions for firewood and branches for wood chips

State Audit Office findings on state forest management expected in spring

On the state's circulation, which must not "hang"

More than half of Latvia's residents have no plans to study in the near future

Forestry Conference for Forest Owners 2025

The Ministry of Agriculture finds the European Commission's planned cuts to support for agriculture and fisheries unacceptable

Ingka Investments concludes the largest forest land acquisition deal in Latvia's history

Let foresters protect forests without bureaucracy!

“Ingka Investments” agrees its largest forest land acquisition to date

The Ministry of Agriculture will instruct that the board of AS “Latvijas valsts meži” be reduced step by step to three members

Synergy between industry and research – the key to Latvia's development

Study suggests solar farms could provide habitats for bumblebees

North Korea introduces its first forest monitoring system

Scientists can pinpoint the origin of illegally harvested timber

The dream of new forests in Denmark risks fading away in a jungle of bureaucracy

Municipal capacity – the key to building a climate-resilient future

Land assets need a steward

How Europe's flagship nation, Germany, is moving towards a circular carbon economy

About the row of oaks in Skrīveri

LMSP 10th International Conference “Sustainability and Resources in Land Management: Cooperation in Times of Crisis and Change”

Diverse forestry helps create climate-resilient forests

A new mortgage lending programme has been developed that will make mortgage loans available for buying homes in the regions

LMT and “Kurekss” roll out the first private 5G network in the Baltic woodworking industry

New “Woodworking Technologies” study programme launched at LBTU Malnavas koledža, first study contracts signed

Sustainable land use is a complex issue that requires cooperation across different levels and sectors

European Tree of the Year in Latvia. Choose and vote!

A Time of Heroes at the Christmas Battles Museum

Even in a very cold winter, Europe will be able to secure sufficient gas volumes

Developments in Poland's energy and climate neutrality policy

Baltic and Nordic forest sectors to cooperate in strengthening Europe's resilience

On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, Latvia highlights the importance of public preparedness for crises

Stora Enso's new forest management model also encompasses biodiversity

Hard times for Finland's foresters

Forest properties in Finland are a good investment

Talent will grow at the Faculty of Forest and Environmental Sciences, ideas will become reality, and together we will move towards a smarter and more successful Latvia. An interview with Andris Paeglītis, acting dean of the Faculty of Forest and Environmental Sciences

“Latvijas Finieris” opens applications for its 2025/2026 internship programme

An elementary “socialist approach”: “Sorry, we shall have different targets!” An interview with forestry expert Arvīds Ozols

Work begins on a new protection plan for the Beberbeķi Nature Park – everyone is invited to take part

Nordic wood industry forum to highlight the sector's role in strengthening European security

The “European Hunting Photo of the Year” competition

VARAM proposes expanding the compensation system – the option to exchange land in protected areas

What is and will be relevant in the furniture manufacturing industry? Find out at the “Riga Furniture and Interior 2025” exhibition!

The forest of the future: European trade union leaders gather at an international seminar in Riga

This year is not a typical one… An interview with Jānis Ķirsis, Chairman of the Board of the Silviculture Contractors' Association

New decision could end US armed forces' trade in tropical timber

Workers' rights are declining worldwide. ITUC Global Rights Index 2025

Latvians are the least likely in the Baltics to build up savings for unexpected expenses

Russia is using forestry to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties in Africa

Tanzania's forests provide 20% of the country's GDP, five times more than official estimates suggest

Starting a timber sales business is easy; keeping it successful is hard

Finland's Natural Resources Institute reports: wolf population rising rapidly

“Latvijas valsts meži” – the greenest brand in Latvia

Peat Days 2025. Event programme

Are certified seeds a safety cushion for farmers in a changing climate?

German economy still shows little activity, but “hopes are not lost”

Further losses for Russia's timber industry. Sanctions sink "Tobol Timber"

Young stands in state forests to be protected across 25 000 hectares this year

Artificial intelligence can both help and harm forestry

Winners of the “Namejs Award 2024” honoured during visit to Lithuania, and “Latvijas Finieris” subsidiary “Likmere” production plant visited

Despite the geopolitical situation, foreign investment in Finland rose to 83.5 billion euros in 2024

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze: “The European Commission's proposal is an unacceptable brake on rural development”

Heavy penalties imposed for destroying veteran trees

VARAM: compensation to be granted for damage caused by specially protected non-game species

On the best wood-use innovation in the “New Wood Competition”

European Commission blames IT system overload for Deforestation Regulation delay

People in Germany are struggling to pay their electricity and gas bills on time

Finland secures food reserves, prepares for crisis situations and urges Europe to follow its example

Public consultation begins on the forestry sector development guidelines for 2026-2050

Minister of Agriculture Armands Krauze: “Economic activity in the forest must be suited both to the challenges of the climate and to economic needs”

“Apvienotais saraksts” calls for climate policy to be frozen while national security is under threat, so that all resources can be focused on the country's defence

Climate change could wipe €247 billion off the value of Europe's forests

“Cocoa with a conscience” – funding for fair and forest-friendly cocoa bean growing

Progress made in talks with the European Commission, discussions on the climate target to continue

Creating a place where people would want to live and work. An interview with Mārtiņš Daģis, Chair of Jelgava State City Council

“Latvijas valsts meži” concludes social dialogue agreement with the company employees' trade union “LVM Cilvēkam un Mežam”

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze invites MPs from the “Progresīvie” parliamentary group to take the opportunity to see current forest management issues at first hand

“Latvijas valsts meži” to restore one of Latvia's rarest habitats in Daugavpils

In Copenhagen, Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze calls on EU member states to insist that agricultural policy be retained as a separate policy

Letter from the heads of government of Sweden and Finland to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen

Latvia still cannot support the European Commission's proposal on the European Union's 2040 climate target

The climate target has become a political “battlefield”

Austria, Luxembourg and Germany criticise the European Union's Deforestation Regulation: “it is unworkable”

Turning pulp mill emissions into renewable value

No, carbon markets are not a moral failure! Abolishing them would be

Fighting forest fires in an age of climate change – innovations in Finland

Forests of the future: paving the way to EU carbon neutrality through sustainable management practices and circular wood-based products

A chance to vote for the most appealing energy-efficient building in Latvia

Schools awarded funding for expeditions and research in Latvia's state forests

Yield volume and the final grain price are currently the great unknown

Construction begins on STIGA RM's new wood-processing plant in Ogre

The best buildings of 2024 announced

Veneer plant “Kuldīgas fabrika” – a winner in two categories at the “Best Building of the Year in Latvia 2024” awards

FSC Europe: Latvia is becoming a pioneer in certifying forest ecosystem services

We want to understand how riverbanks ought to be managed. An interview with Mārcis Saklaurs, forest owner in Salacgrīva

About the Council of Europe Landscape Award

Latgale's largest environmental education event, "Zaļā klase 2025", brings together 2000 schoolchildren

Netflix signs a deal to buy carbon credits from US forests

Sweden pays a premium to Finland for imported timber

Sharp growth in mortgage lending – in Latvia's property market, the regions are closing in on Riga's pace

The “Smart Cities Conference” will take place in Riga for the fourth time

Very few companies selling tropical timber can determine where it came from

State-owned companies will have to pay 90% of their profits into the state budget as dividends

New FAO forest management plan for Latin America

How the “American dream” is fading – housing costs in the US keep rising

The Vatican puts Pope Francis's ecological teaching into practice with a vocational training centre in agriculture

Ifo institute slightly lowers its growth forecast for Germany

The Enterprise Europe Network in Latvia begins a new phase running to 2028

US loggers on the European Union's Deforestation Regulation: "The music has stopped, the dancing is over."

Powerful hurricanes hit timber stocks in the USA

The Ministry of Agriculture and its subordinate institutions have obtained certificates for the high quality of their sector management and information system governance

Why a 10-kilometre run through the woods is not yet a degree in forestry science

Latvia joins the strategic alliance of forest-rich countries “For Forest Group+”

Technology for Latvia's defence and security

Survey: 79% of young people take a critical view of their job market prospects

An industry story. How to collect more tax without significantly increasing the national debt

How can housing affordability be solved in Great Britain?

Cutting emissions in timber haulage

How Lithuania overtook us

Lodging, fusarium and flooded fields – what is this summer teaching us about the future of farming?

A domino effect in agriculture – the delayed harvest season threatens the next one too

Implementation of the Coastal Plan is successful despite the impact of global trends on coastal development

Applications open for the “Zelta čiekurs” forest sector annual award

The Ombudsman's Office insists on a comprehensive review of the system of property encumbrances and compensation, and turns to the government once again

The European Union's plans for meeting its climate targets. A sector-by-sector review

The working person is the state's most valuable asset

Visit to Ukraine by representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture

Entrepreneur in Finland loses state forestry company contract over dual citizenship

Has demand for wood in Finland peaked?

Labour market activity picked up in the second quarter of 2025

Sharp rise in the number of forest fires in Canada

Beetle species new to Latvia discovered in the Ogre valley

“Valmet” to supply biomass heating plant to paper producers in Spain

Will growth in the defence sector in the European Union drive the development of eco-friendly technologies?

EU Deforestation Regulation requirements do not apply to wooden pallets and packaging

Real estate in a specially protected nature territory

No farmer was prepared for weather like this – valuable crops end up as animal feed

The main benefit of the programme – farms have the opportunity to develop production

Felling permits issued in the first half of 2025

Estonian Business School summer school explores the future of artificial intelligence and the Green Deal

The “Stiga RM” group strengthens its leading position – 2024 turnover approaches 100 million euros

Rainfall is having a negative impact on forest management work

Government declares a state of emergency in agriculture across the whole territory of Latvia until 4 November

Summary. The European Union wants to achieve net zero emissions through legislation

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze: an emergency situation must be declared in the areas affected by the rains

The 25th “Minhauzens 2025” Hunters' Festival held in grand style

Investigation under way against state officials over illegal logging in Ukraine

Why are global supply chains still not ready for the introduction of the European Deforestation Regulation?

The “Mazais Namejs 2025” camp — now in its 8th year!

To reduce the threat of flooding, “Zemkopības ministrijas nekustamie īpašumi” begins the renovation of the Ogre polder protective dam

Shelter building code developed

Birch plywood used at the Song and Dance Celebration is handed over to schools

No solution to a problem that works elsewhere in Europe is right for Latvia

Study shows renewable energy is cheaper than fossil fuels

Environmental campaigners dismayed by insufficient climate funding in the European Union's draft budget

Food waste volumes in Latvia remain high – households generate the most

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze: our priority for the 2028-2034 period is undiminished funding for agriculture and fisheries

LTRK survey: the public administration body businesses rate best is the CSDD, and the worst are the building authorities

Twice as many ticks recorded in Finland this year as in previous years

Russia's timber production giants are facing major problems

When heading into the forest, we urge you to be responsible and to protect nature

Weather conditions are affecting nature trail infrastructure. We urge visitors to think carefully before setting out on nature trails

Action plan for attracting investment and improving access to finance approved

Survey: 86% of Latvian employees answer work calls even while on holiday

Income growth is outpacing housing prices, but not for long

About forests, thinking and the lack of it

Two in three employers are not prepared to hire a pensioner. How can you stay in demand?

Bill approved for a sustainable economy and tackling climate change

Veneer from Russian birch is still being imported into Europe

The Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union categorically objects to the privatisation of “Latvijas valsts meži”

Sweden is failing to comply with the so-called green transparency legislation

Businesses expect speed, flexibility and less bureaucracy from banks

Biology. The entire mechanism is based on tiny vesicles... Arnis Rītups in conversation with Seppo Vainio

The weather is testing farmers – how can they adapt?

Public invited to take part in study on the spread of an invasive fungus – the rooting bolete – in Latvia

“We will not buy a pig in a poke” – Europe's new proposal for meeting the 2040 climate targets

Spruces grown over 54 years with diameters exceeding 50 centimetres

“Stiga RM” backs an initiative to combat imports of sanctioned and smuggled plywood into Europe

For the festival, “Latvijas Finieris” invites visitors to see a miniature “Silver Grove” in Vērmanes Garden

Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze: AS “Latvijas valsts meži” must remain entirely in state ownership

The Latvian Forest Industry Federation's objections to the privatisation of "Latvijas valsts meži" assets

Developing an innovative solution – a smart device to fight the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle

Expert: the Germans believe in our agriculture, but we ourselves do not

Reality is forcing decisions to change. What is happening to the European Union's 2040 emissions reduction target?

Hydrological regime to be restored at Palšu Mire, with a tourist trail, viewing tower and platform to be built

Armands Krauze: only under conditions of stable profit can farmers and forest owners improve their operations and work towards sustainability and environmental goals

Implementing the EU's policy direction in the Central Asia region, the Ministry of Agriculture is developing cooperation with Uzbekistan on forestry matters

Across Latvia as a whole, we have driven into a deep ditch. How many will have to be culled this year?

Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union warns of the consequences of cutting funding for the State Forest Service

Dreams are lovely, life is good

Artificial Intelligence is a false god

Showy fuchsia, in memory of the teacher... The many plant names recorded in the National Botanic Garden's database

What should we call a fly's husband? A fly's partner?

The nature values market – a risk or an opportunity for forestry in Finland and the European Union?

Timber mobilisation. Can we do it?

Looking to the future – the true, the right and the only way forward. A conversation with Armands Apfelbaums, co-owner of “ACA Timber”

Winter cereal harvests are rising – how can the trend be sustained in future?

The cybercrime market has become the world's third-largest economy

“Bulduru Tehnikums” becomes a tree worker certification centre for the “European Arboricultural Council”

Report shows supreme courts are becoming the “battlegrounds” of climate policy

“Stiga RM” completes modernisation of its Kuldīga plant – investment exceeds 22 million euros

Natural disasters are causing ever greater damage to farmers

The European Council backs a new monitoring system to promote sustainable forest management

Israeli-Iranian conflict poses a real threat to the timber trade in the Middle East

Estonia abandons target of generating all the electricity it uses from renewable sources

Forests do not fit the European Commission's scenario

Deans chosen for four faculties of the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

No curly coats in sight

US repeals forest road-building rules, allowing logging volumes to increase

Renewable energy sector welcomes creation of Germany's 500 billion euro fund

E-fuel is essential for defence capabilities

Finnish cities offer a reward for killing invasive Spanish slugs

African mahogany bark could be used to make medicines

European Commission takes a stand against the inflow of sanctioned timber products from China

New US bill would grant tax relief to users of domestic hardwood in order to curb cheap imports

Significant progress achieved in talks with Sweden's energy minister on the LaSGO electricity cable study

161 new specialists graduate from the Faculty of Forest and Environmental Sciences

Survey: Older employees feel the least valued

Honouring the Mēri great oak

On the interview on “Krustpunktā”. Pēters Putniņš, Chairman of the Board of AS “Latvijas valsts meži”

Pellervo Economic Research Institute forecast – forest owners' revenue from timber sales could hit record highs

At the Summer Solstice and Midsummer

Contemporary art space “Kurtuve” in Valmiera shortlisted for the “New European Bauhaus Prizes 2025” final

First annual fire ritual held in the Spēkozoli oak grove

Memorandum of cooperation signed on managing wild animal populations

There is no one else who ought to be thinking about Europe's security in our place. An interview with Kristīne Rapa, Chair of the Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union

An international conference on family business development has been held in Riga. The “Family Business Champions 2025” were honoured

Animal-friendly homes are becoming the new norm – Riga too is getting its first residential project of this kind

Goods exports grew for the fourth consecutive month in April

Number of people forced to flee by war shockingly high over the past decade

Sustainability problems of “green” funds

A new site in Zemgale where the browntail moth, a pest dangerous to human health, has multiplied

Almost 30 million new trees planted during the spring forest regeneration season

An organised minority commands a disorganised majority

This was an interesting election (or a brief assessment of the past few days)

Take part in the 11th European Sustainable Development Week – show how your organisation is building a responsible future!

Extreme weather in Europe – how much did it cost homeowners and insurers last year?

Latvia wins international arbitration proceedings in the field of renewable energy

“Baltic Waste & Energy Group” plans to build the first CO₂-negative cogeneration plant in the Baltics

New seed processing plant opens in Latvia following a 10 million euro investment

Ministry of Economics to reorganise 9 capital companies

Refurbished recreation site and the latest goings-on in the forest – the most-read nature news in easy-to-read language

The country's resilience to extreme weather needs substantial strengthening

More forest in Latvia, fewer people

On the need for sanitary felling on the outskirts of Ogre

Chairman of the Board of “Latvijas Finieris”: in 2024 we achieved considerable progress in several areas of development

Merger of SIA “Linas Agro” and SIA “Elagro Trade” completed

Inter-institutional discussion held on the future of green procurement in Latvia

Latvia – a forestry superpower

Ireland's road to sustainable food systems

Many investment funds are dropping their sustainability claims

Positive trends emerged in the economy in Q1 – investment is rising and activity is increasing in the construction sector

Eurobarometer shows record-high trust in the EU, strong support for the euro and for a common defence and security policy

The impact of the geopolitical situation on the risk of food shortages

“Latvijas Finieris” unveils a unique timber building complex at its “Zābaki” holding

Ogre city residents call on “Rīgas meži” to halt logging in the city's outlying forests during the bird nesting season

Opening of “Latvijas Finieris” wooden building complex at the “Zābaki” tree nursery

Carbon capture and storage: a “fashionable trend” or an opportunity? Part II

Changes in the management of AS “Latvijas Finieris”

To improve the company's financial results, “Stora Enso” is selling part of its forest holdings in Sweden

Carbon capture and storage: a “passing fashion” or an opportunity? Part I

The State Forest Service urges people to report invasive animal species

Wood use solutions for the bioeconomy presented in Brussels

Latvian Forest Days 2025

In economically challenging times, AS “Latvijas valsts meži” achieved outstanding performance in 2024

Latvia to host OECD seminar “Forestry for the Future: Bringing Stakeholders Together for Climate Policy and Sustainable Growth”

Foundation stone laid for a wind farm built on local capital and innovation in Latvia

Foundation stone laid for the “Laflora Energy” wind farm

The large-scale forest education festival “Latvijas Meža dienas” takes place this weekend

“Latvijas valsts meži” announces an auction for the award of hunting rights lease

Special Certificate of Appreciation from the Ministry of Culture for the leaders of “Sēlijas salas”

Given the new government's plans, Germany risks missing its emissions reduction targets

The Ministry of Agriculture and hunters' organisations agree on further cooperation to reduce damage caused by red deer

“Cut, Baby, Cut”, or why US timber harvesting has to rise by 450%

“Rīgas meži” launches information campaign “Leave No Scars in the Forest”

Will fees for permits and season cards rise? New amendments to the regulations announced

Satellite reveals the carbon balance – Finland absorbs 50 million tonnes

A new tool for learning – the LLKC Repository

LBTU announces open competition for the dean posts of four faculties

The forestry sector still has reserves of untapped potential

“Latvijas Meža dienas” to offer a wide-ranging programme for young and old alike

Carbon Farming in the European Forestry Sector

Timber from Colombia – a source of illegal wood for Europe and North America

Local authorities and their residents will have greater influence over the implementation of renewable energy projects in their district

Rapid growth in construction in the first quarter of the year

The competitiveness and strategic autonomy advantages of the forest bioeconomy for Europe

Climate-driven problems in agriculture – why is the quality of seed material decisive?

Revised EU Deforestation Regulation rules will cut compliance costs by 30%

“Fields in Bloom” for the fifth year running – residents invited to celebrate the flowering season and capture the finest spring moments at the special photo frames

Cooperation with the forestry sector is extremely valuable for the faculty's development. An interview with Professor Vivita Puķīte, Dean of the Faculty of Forest and Environmental Sciences at LBTU

Members of the European Parliament agree to change the protection status of wolves in the European Union

Fifty years on, the war's effects are still felt in Vietnam. A bleak future is in store for Ukraine and Gaza

“Stiga RM”: National defence is a strategic priority, so the best possible solution must be found

A wooden house is a better carbon store than a forest

Local authorities to be given powers to improve air quality, not to ban firewood or wood chip heating

New study suggests that roundwood export bans have failed to halt deforestation worldwide

The potential for CO₂ removal in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea is limited

Relieving Germany's Foreign Ministry of responsibility for climate matters could weaken international engagement

How Japan has adapted its standards to make buildings earthquake-safe

Land resources must be used meaningfully

Opening of the Independence Square and Freedom Road exhibition in Ogre

On the Day of the Restoration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia

The fight against climate change – restoring peat bogs in Latvia

Sweden prepares to build a 400-metre-long timber bridge

EU informal environment ministers' meeting discusses climate change adaptation and disinformation

Indigenous communities oppose legal changes that could accelerate deforestation in the Amazon region

Trees at the stadium mutilated in the name of beauty. “OC Liepāja” to be penalised for unprofessional topping of lime trees

Latvia's first raccoon?

God Guides, Nature Inspires, Work Unites – the 35th anniversary of the Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union

Letter to the Minister of Agriculture, “On the management of the red deer population”

Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Energy Labelling Working Plan for 2025-2030 published

Sand Sculpture Festival approaches in Jelgava

This week we meet at the Latvian Plant Parade

AS “Latvijas valsts meži” rejects the false information that has been circulating about wind farms

“Stiga RM” invests 6 million euros in a new plywood further-processing plant in Kuldīga

Which European countries are the best at recycling waste?

The age of naive globalisation is ending. Latvia must follow Poland's approach of economic nationalism

Poland leads European efforts to end dependence on imports of Russian fossil fuels

As every spring, the forest comes to Jelgava once again

First regional office of the Ministry of Economics opens in Jelgava

26 April: Latvian National Botanic Garden plant market and Spring Mushroom Symposium.

Smart weather stations rolled out in Latvia to help farmers make data-driven decisions

Wine industry looks for new uses for millions of timber posts

US Congress passes act on the use of mass timber building materials in federal building construction

Study conducted in Finland shows that the cost of logging restrictions would run to billions of euros in losses

NASA uses laser technology to map tree canopy height from space

Educational and community events will be held across Latvia during “Forest Days”

The new face of fossil resources

25 April – the major event “The Forest Comes to Jelgava”

Waiting for Easter — and welcoming it...

“Laflora” begins its 30th peat extraction season

The Horse Podcast Within the Limits of One Sentence, together with Bony Fashion, or: The most amusing company names registered in 2024

Green light from the Council of Europe: another positive step towards changing the wolf's protection status

Plant trees outside the forest and join the EU initiative “3 Billion Trees”!

The potential impact of Russian timber on wood product markets worldwide

Our security is not possible without independent energy supply

European Parliament Budget Committee delegation to assess Latvia's readiness in defence and climate change

Express exhibition “Young Wild Animals”

Geopolitical uncertainty continues to affect Latvia's export opportunities

Manufacturing output up 0.8% in the first two months of 2025

IKEA's climate footprint has fallen by 5% over the year

Protecting Australia's forests: scientists take on disinformation

“Latvijas finieris” named Latvia's best employer last year

Flag consecration marks the 35th anniversary of the Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union

Corruption and bribery – how illegal timber “feeds” Europe and America

The way is clear for fish in the Vildoga river

US President grants the Forest Service sweeping new powers

Can climate policy strengthen European security?

Proposal to offset Germany's CO₂ emissions outside Europe draws criticism

US builders' association forecast – millions of households will not be able to afford to buy new homes

Latvians are no strangers to humour...

Cluster of Spēkozoli hike signposts unveiled at Medņi in Vidriži parish

Local election candidates must offer effective and targeted solutions for business development in the regions

Reciprocal tariffs would reduce German exports to the US only slightly

Last week a bear killed a person in Slovakia. The country's government is deciding on reducing bear numbers

The US Army and Navy want to use “blast-resistant” timber

Felling permits show a 30% drop

Ombudsman's recommendation supported – deforestation may be offset by establishing forest elsewhere

The State Forest Service hands over one vehicle and one hundred global navigation satellite system devices to Ukraine

Nature protection plan approved for the “Augšdaugava” Protected Landscape Area

Ķikans, Irbe and Lūžņa river mouths closed during the coastal bird nesting season in Kurzeme

Changes ahead – the "Clean Industrial Deal"

An additional €1.5 million for pilot projects to renovate apartment buildings

A timber-concrete frame could be the next major innovation in housing construction

Developments in the European Union – policy, climate, environment and energy

Governor of the Bank of Finland Olli Rehn criticises the European emissions trading system: “It creates inequality between member states”

Kaspars Melnis debates clean industry development and global environmental policy at the European Union Environment Council

Differences of even decades – old forests are defined differently in Finland and Sweden

The role of education in our national economy – are we ready for the future?

Despite loud promises to give up Russian gas by 2027, imports into the EU rose by 18% last year

Investing 5.5 million euros, “Stiga RM” resumes construction of an apartment building in Kuldīga

The Finnish government sets criteria for old-growth forests. They will not apply to commercially managed forests

About the “Let's stop feeding the bear!” campaign. A summary

Indonesia's carbon market to reach 4 billion dollars a year within the next decade

“Latvijas valsts meži” is the first in Latvia to receive PEFC RED II certification for sustainably produced wood energy products

Europe's 2040 climate target and the prospects for meeting it

Foundation slab completed for the future AS “Latvijas Finieris” resin plant

Nature's supermarket and a safety net – how the forest feeds the world

Compensation confusion in restrictions on real estate rights – study reveals shortcomings in the regulatory framework

The “Stop feeding the bear!” campaign

Sustainable Procurement Day to be held in Latvia for the first time

A common beech from Poland has been voted “European Tree of the Year 2025”. The Mēru Grand Oak in 8th place

Meeting to seek compromise on managing the red deer population

Latvian entrepreneurs invited to apply for the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025

LTRK has drawn up recommendations for inclusion in political parties' local election manifestos

Energy Efficiency Quarter – a place to talk with the experts

State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture Ģirts Krūmiņš discusses cooperation in forestry with Ukrainian representatives

The minimum cost of rebuilding Ukraine is 500 billion euros – experts' message to EU decision-makers

North America's tallest timber hotel to rise beside Vancouver station

A reminder. On restrictions to forest harvesting in spring

Builders are stockpiling timber to dodge tariffs. But at what cost?

The Nummurmuiža Oak, a stately survivor in Pārdaugava

The Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will affect every link in the timber supply chain worldwide

A ban on forestry activity has been in force in specially protected nature areas since 15 March

Forest planting work begins in state forests this week

The share-transfer riddle

Will clothing containing wood fibre be defined as environmentally friendly?

Latvian Construction Year Award 2024

“Latvijas valsts meži” Rietumvidzeme regional customer centre in Valmiermuiža receives the “Grand Prix”

Fewer goods transported by all modes of transport in 2024

European Commission proposes lowering the wolf's protection status

Latvia's opportunity – strengthening carbon management

US import tariff chaos: is the global economy heading for a recession?

Fair competition must not be distorted for the sake of potential investors. An open letter

Getting to know the sustainable fuel plant at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm

Climate-friendly, or perhaps not?

Finnish economist: the impact of US tariffs on Latvian exports will be small, with uncertainty posing the greater challenge

Slowly recovering lost ground

Utter chaos. Trump's tariffs push timber prices to "Covid"-era levels

In today's geopolitical circumstances, the customary unhurried pace is dangerous

Expedition “Groundwater – invisible or visible after all?” builds young people's understanding of environmental protection

Poll suggests the French and Germans do not back higher defence spending

It is essential that bioeconomy sectors are included in the European Union's Clean Industrial Deal

“ACA Timber” acquires “Metsä Forest Latvia”

The Nordic Council of Ministers' political priorities for 2025-2030

Addressing the Threat to National Security from Imports of Timber and Lumber

How the protection of biological values works in private forests in Sweden

People must be at the centre of everything. An interview with Kristīne Rapa, chair of the Latvian Forest Sector Trade Union

Logging has been very difficult. The mild winter is affecting timber availability in southern Finland

Occupational and environmental safety for logging companies

Illegal plywood imports in Europe: threats, consequences and solutions

Scorched earth. Will Russia pay for the Ukrainian forests destroyed by the war?

More durable and more ecological acoustic timber panels

Slack persisted in the labour market in 2024

Climate change is causing more problems in forestry; new forest management models are being sought

I am glad for every person in Latvia who owns land in Latvia. An interview with Ģirts Krūmiņš, State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture

18 US states want President Trump to reject the EUDR rules

Review of AS “Latvijas valsts meži” performance results for 2024

“BNP Paribas” signs an 8 billion euro agreement with the European Investment Bank on investment in wind energy

Significant demand for timber expected in Finland this year

An agreement on forestry and game animals – German foresters, landowners and hunters "around one table"

Opportunity to nominate candidates for the Nordic Council Environment Prize 2025

The future of firewood in Europe: resource or problem?

On Forest State Register maintenance work

University of Latvia researchers to begin monitoring in the peatland areas being restored by Latvijas valsts mezi

Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2024/2025 report: fear of failure and slow adoption of artificial intelligence are holding entrepreneurs in Latvia back

In April, RTU will host the “Baltic Wood Building Forum 2025”

A decision-making strategy, or HOW WILL IT LOOK?

Latvian workers want to move to Norway and Germany, while managers and entrepreneurs prefer Spain

Green policy and Europe. A brief summary of European policy-making matters

European climate and energy policy programme calendar of events 2025

Every representative of the forestry sector sees the forest broadly and in different ways. A conversation with Armands Krauze, Minister for Agriculture. Part II

The bioeconomy – a chance to make the most of Latvia's potential

Sweden, Finland or the Netherlands – which European countries have the greenest transport?

More efficient forest regeneration under the LAD support programme with LVM forest seedlings

Land is, was and will be the foundation of Latvia's prosperity. A conversation with Armands Krauze, Minister of Agriculture. Part I

Changes in society's lifestyle could bring the Paris Agreement target closer while also improving quality of life

A “green corridor” for foreign investors only?

A significant step in the development of social dialogue in the forest sector

France's energy transition problems against a backdrop of government instability

Can Latvia's forest owners and farmers adapt to climate change?

Restoring peatlands will drive climate warming for at least another hundred years

Timber industry future forum “From the forest to the world market: how can we give Latvia's economic engine extra power?”

The State Audit Office expands the Local Government Handbook – new chapter devoted to forest governance and management

The Ministry of Agriculture simplifies changes of land use type for landowners and reduces administrative costs

Poland's move away from fossil fuels. Problems and opportunities

The European Union declares war on bureaucracy once again

European Tree of the Year. Take part and vote!

Heterobasidion diseases threaten to wipe out Europe's conifer stands

Tell me, please, where should I go? Text messages received by Latvian healers (from confidential sources)

“Latvijas Finieris” announces 25 work placements in 13 professions

The University of Latvia and “Latvijas Finieris” launch a major study on the development of the forest sector

We must return to raising statesmen and stateswomen. An interview with Sniedze Sproģe, adviser to the Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments

Agreement reached on drawing up a new memorandum of cooperation for the future management of the red deer population

LBTU doctoral student Normunds Stivriņš highlights the importance of Zemgale's geology and environment in shaping regional identity

The State Forest Service donates three vehicles and one hundred global navigation satellite devices to Ukraine

Latvijas valsts meži opens its Rietumvidzeme regional client centre at Valmiermuiža

The pre-election campaign in Germany and questions about the future of the Green Deal

Slovenia's forests are a symbol of the country's identity

Let us not abandon the automotive industry!

German insurance giant MEAG acquires forest land in Finland

Nature-based solutions. Pilot projects in the Nordic countries

On the availability of funding for businesses in the timber industry

An unprecedented tree-planting programme is in full swing in Hungary

21 March – International Day of Forests

A shortage of qualified workers is creating problems in delivering the energy transition. Europe is falling behind in adapting homes and cities to climate change. Part II

Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers approves the supervisory board of the state enterprise "Forests of Ukraine"

Conserving biological diversity requires strict protection of natural values across 10% of Latvia's territory

Maximum permitted felling volume in state forests in final felling reduced by 9.5 percent for the next five years

A shortage of skilled workers is causing problems in delivering the energy transition. Europe is falling behind in adapting its homes and cities to climate change. Part I

“Stiga RM” calls for support for a historic opportunity to reclaim Latvian land

First steps towards cutting red tape. Construction

Wolf damage continues to increase – dogs and livestock mauled, the Ministry of Agriculture calls for wolf hunting rules to be reviewed

Laura Anteina to lead the Nature Conservation Agency

Restoring birch woodland and wetlands in the land of fire and ice

Escape: “We do not believe in principles, only in frogs”

Changes in the leadership of the Latvian Hunters' Association

Cut logging volumes in the European Union and they will rise elsewhere. It will cost EU citizens very, very dearly

Exhibition “Vārdene” on display at the Riga customer centre of “Latvijas valsts meži”

If it carries on as before, Latvia risks missing the targets of the National Energy and Climate Plan by the set deadline

Farmers and foresters can apply to implement innovations

Oaks, pines and limes are the most commonly registered ancient trees in Latvia

“Latvijas Finieris” begins construction of a new resin factory

Government approves action plan for security and growth in the Eastern border region

Forests and timber – development directions and forecasts for 2025

The state must seize the opportunity and buy the Latvian forests being sold by Sweden's “Sodra”

Sustainability reporting remains a "black box" for many small businesses in Germany

Brussels and bird hunting: let us turn to the science

ESG – environmental and social issues, corporate governance and sustainability. What should we be watching this year? What will matter in Latvia too?

Consumer protection against greenwashing to be strengthened

HS “Timber Group” has acquired “Vika Wood” SIA from “Bergs Timber” AB

Geopolitics and macroeconomics will shape nature conservation and climate action worldwide in 2025

The Latvian Hunters' Association withdraws from the “Latvijas valsts meži” memorandum “On mutual cooperation in reducing damage caused by game animals”

Support available in the forestry sector

Manufacturing output fell by 2% year on year in November

Europe – politics, energy, the environment. A look at 2025

Secondary school pupils invited to take part in the “LVM Bioeconomy School” scholarship competition

Year-end round-up

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