The forest is our wealth. Our Latvian green gold. Latvia is undeniably a land of green forests, and forests are one of the country's main natural resources. The European Union's Green Deal provides for the planting of three billion trees by 2030, which is a very commendable plan. However, what should be done if, at the same time, the Green Deal plans to phase out peat and the use of peat products in agriculture and forestry?

Representatives of the forestry sector point out that it is impossible to grow forest seedlings without peat at all. Latvia's forests are a valuable and priceless resource for economic, environmental, and social needs. Timber processing, logging, and the timber industry provide jobs and economic development.

Timber exports promote the country's economic growth. Forests play an important role in nature conservation and biodiversity, providing an essential part of habitats and ecosystems that are vital for maintaining ecosystem balance. The forest also acts as a carbon sink, as in the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere, accumulating carbon and releasing oxygen. In a sustainably managed forest, carbon accumulation never stops, as young trees replace those that have been harvested. In harvested wood, carbon remains sequestered – acting as a carbon-storing "warehouse".

https://www.db.lv/zinas/kad-zalais-kurss-nomaldas-no-kursa-512732