Analysis of the environmental impact assessment of power energy projects in Latvia

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the environmental impact assessment of power energy projects in Latvia. Every industrial activity and procedure influences the environment and climate change: each to a lesser or greater extent. In Latvia, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure has been carried out for more than ten years, and during these years numerous impact assessments have been conducted. The main purpose of the EIA is to assess the possible impacts of the implementation of an intended activity, or planning document, on the environment and to consequently develop proposals for the prevention or minimization of negative effects. In turn, the project shall avert violation of the requirements specified in the regulatory enactments. Currently, particular global attention, including in Latvia, is being paid to two aspects of the energy crisis – energy dependency and climate change. The global experience has proven that with an increase in the consumption of energy, a deficiency of energy resources occurs. In this situation, public officials have increased the import of energy resources, rather than encourage a reduction of consumption. Consequently, the state becomes more dependent on imported energy resources. At the same time, scientists are researching alternative energy resources, and the development of new technology. Latvia is a country with limited resources. The development of the national economy is unthinkable without an increase in the production sector. In turn, the development of the production sector is connected with the intensification of production capacity and the resulting consequences to the environment.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of a literature review and a case study.FindingsThe power industry in Latvia has acquired a stable position in the national economy. It is necessary to elaborate the common approach of EIA power projects. During the process of impact assessment, principles of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) should be implemented, which enhance the quality and efficiency of the EIA. The use of LCA principles in the process of the EIA will allow the assessment of the designed activities and environmental impact of proposed alternatives to have greater objectivity.Originality/valueThe work concludes with suggestions on how to include the principles of LCA in the EIA procedure. This is to improve the impact assessment of energy projects.

Impact assessment of biogas projects in latvia

“…According to Latvian laws and regulations on screening, the regional environmental administration is entitled to invite experts to evaluate, request and receive information from state and local government institutions, as well as to request and receive additional information from the project proposer. However, given the current economic situation, the government is not able to invite experts because there are no resources for the remuneration of experts [10].…”

The development of EIA screening for the anaerobic digestion of biowaste projects in Latvia

“…According to Latvian laws and regulations on screening, the regional environmental administration is entitled to invite experts to evaluate, request, and receive information from state and local government institutions, as well as to request and receive additional information from the project proposer. However, given the current economic situation, the government is not able to invite experts, due to the lack of resources available for the remuneration of experts [5].…”

Development of an EIA screening phase for biogas projects in Latvia

“…However, given the current economic situation, the government is not able to invite experts because there are no resources for the remuneration of experts [5].…”