Agro-construction in Latvia – a natural solution for sustainable building
As Latvia moves toward the European Union’s climate-neutrality goals, it is seeking new ways to reduce the construction sector’s carbon footprint and strengthen the use of local resources. One of the most significant yet underused opportunities is agro-construction – a sustainable building approach based on agricultural materials. It not only helps mitigate climate change but also creates new economic and social development opportunities for Latvia’s regions.
This topic has been brought to the forefront by the “Agro Building Carbon (ABC)” project, implemented by the Vidzeme Planning Region in cooperation with the Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences’ New Building School (JBS). The project aims to explore and strengthen the use of agricultural-based building materials, their carbon-sequestration potential, and their role in Latvia’s construction policy.
Conversations that set the direction
On September 25 of this year, project partners and industry experts gathered in Riga, at Paraugtipogrāfija, for the first joint discussion to share experiences and build collaboration networks. The conversations highlighted that hemp, straw, and other crops can significantly contribute to both construction and agriculture, while also helping to meet carbon reduction targets. It was emphasized that Latvia has a long history of cultivating these crops, yet the sector lacks sufficient processing capacity and clear regulations.
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Originally published on 19 Nov
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The coalition parties have agreed that either the state or Elering will support the construction of energy storage capacities. The Ministry of Climate historically believed energy storage would be built on market demand. The Ministry of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas stated, “If we purchase offshore wind energy on a large scale and develop these capabilities, we must also ensure that we have the infrastructure for long duration energy storage.” She emphasised that constructing an offshore wind facility without appropriate energy storage poses a significant risk of energy being exported.
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Originally published on 27 Jan
The Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications has announced the launch of a €100 million Defence Fund, established to support the development of innovative defence and security capabilities to meet the growing global demand for new solutions. Managed by national fund manager SmartCap, the fund will provide direct investments to defence companies and funds investing in military and dual-use technologies.
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Originally published on 21 Jan
Doubts have been raised about Energiø Bornholm’s relevance and economy, but the project has never been more important. Besides being a crucial project in the European fight against climate change, the energy island has every opportunity to become a good business for Denmark.
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Originally published on 15 Jan
US healthcare products manufacturer Hollister Incorporated is expanding its Lithuanian operations. This month, the company has officially opened its financial services center, Hollister SSC Lithuania, complementing its manufacturing facility, Hollister Lietuva, located in the Kaunas Free Economic Zone. Building on this growth, the company has announced plans to establish a new product development (NPD) center at its Lithuanian facility later in the year.
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Originally published on 14 Jan
Estonia opened the first Business Hub in U.S. Located at the Embassy of Estonia in Washington, D.C., the Business Hub will serve as a bridge between Estonian companies and the vast business opportunities in the U.S. market. A delegation of Estonian defence industry innovators was present at the opening event, also attending the annual AUSA conference.
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Originally published on 17 Oct