At FICIL, we are deeply committed to advancing green transition in Latvia. In our view, it is more than just an environmental necessity, but a broad field with significant economic opportunities that can turn Latvia into a leader of innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. Our Energy and Green Economy Work Group is a flagship initiative within our organization, aiming to stimulate energy independence, green and circular economy development, better management of natural resources and wider adoption of sustainable practices in Latvia. This Group plays a pivotal role in ensuring that Latvia’s policies align with the European Union’s ambitious climate goals and facilitate introduction of innovative and sustainable solutions in Latvia.
The FICIL Energy and Green Economy Work Group is led by Dace Cīrule, Partner at Law Office LarkLaw (BritCham), and supported by a Sub-group on green transportation and infrastructure, managed by Jānis Grants, CEO of DPD Latvia. The Work Group has exceptional expertise; therefore it has built a strong collaboration with the Latvian government. As the Minister of Climate and Energy Kaspars Melnis noted: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to be a partner of FICIL in developing regulations in the areas of climate, energy, and the environment. The extensive knowledge and experience of FICIL members allow for a comprehensive analysis of regulations, incorporating not only solutions used in Latvia, but also successful practices from other countries. Investments in renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainability are crucial for Latvia to achieve the goals set in climate neutrality. Therefore, I would like to express my gratitude for the close cooperation and the work FICIL has contributed to updating the Climate Law and the National Energy and Climate Plan, as well as, for the professional daily collaboration in preparing other regulations within the competence of the Ministry of Climate and Energy.” This close collaboration ensures that our shared vision for sustainability is being translated into actionable, impactful reforms!
The Energy and Green Economy Work Group covers several thematic areas. In the area of green economy, we have been advocating for legislative and regulatory improvements that enable Latvia to reduce CO2 emissions, while enhancing energy efficiency across sectors, such as construction, infrastructure development and green transportation. For the development of the sustainable energy sector, FICIL has been suggesting policy recommendations that would strengthen Latvia’s energy independence and ensure cost-efficiency. A major focus of our work has been on advocating the adoption of an integrated National energy and climate change plan, which emphasizes the importance of renewable energy sources and decarbonization of industries beyond the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS).
We also recognize the critical importance of the circular economy in fostering long-term sustainability. Our Work Group emphasizes minimizing waste and maximizing the efficient use of resources, contributing to a broader societal shift toward sustainable practices. By promoting this circular model, we are helping Latvia build a resilient economy that benefits businesses, consumers, and the environment.
During the last 5 years, we have provided 62 recommendations to the government, 48 of which (77%) have been either fully implemented or are in progress. This amazing achievement stems from a strong commitment of our Work Group leaders towards a change and understanding that each of us has the responsibility to drive that change. As Dace Cīrule puts it: “Day Eight is the first to follow the creation of the world. Thus, Day Eight is the first, as of which a person carries autonomous and continuous responsibility for himself and the world. One grows, discovers, develops. The freedom and the right to inhabit this land are subject to a huge responsibility for one’s home and oneself. Having been working at FICIL for a decade, I have found myself at home among people who accept my belief that each day is Day Eight. Each Day Eight has a strong sense of freedom and a tremendous responsibility to continue growing, creating and developing. No matter who we turn to or seek cooperation with, we expect nothing more and nothing less than to share each Day Eight with loyalty to freedom and responsibility. Thank you to everyone who acts together with us.”
Reflecting on our efforts in the transport and infrastructure sector, Jānis Grants notes: “As the head of the Green Transport and Infrastructure Group, I must acknowledge that we have reached a significant milestone in both our own and Europe’s development – that is, we have taken the first real steps in the reduction of CO2 emissions, actively worked on preparing energy infrastructure for new challenges, and laid the foundation for the future development of both Europe and Latvia through our current activities. Of course, our goal and the path to achieving it are full of challenges – geopolitical situation, rising costs, and additional ESG administration burden for business owners are factors that must be overcome. It is critically important that we collectively move towards a greener, more competitive Latvia and a stronger business environment.”
As we continue to shape sustainability policies and foster green innovation, it is vital to ensure successful engagement with the government and key stakeholders. We remain committed to constructive collaboration to boost Latvia’s competitiveness and resilience in the global economy! 