SYSTEM FOR DECISION SUPPORT TO REACH CLIMATE NEUTRALITY OBJECTIVES: CASE OF LATVIA

Abstract

Sustainability standards are essential for encouraging eco-friendly practices, social accountability, and ethical management across various industries. Although numerous sustainability standards are voluntary, an increasing number are becoming obligatory due to national laws, international treaties, or industry guidelines. In response to the escalating threats posed by climate change, the European Union (EU) is leading global initiatives aimed at achieving climate neutrality. Certification systems that authenticate and validate organizations' and companies' claims of climate neutrality are vital to this endeavour. These systems can be classified into mandatory and voluntary certification schemes, each serving a distinct function in the EU's sustainability framework. The concepts of standard and scheme are crucial in fostering the pursuit of climate neutrality. A standard is a document that outlines specific criteria, specifications, guidelines, or characteristics that must be fulfilled to guarantee that materials, products, processes, and services comply with established norms. Standards are typically voluntary and are created to enhance quality, safety, and interoperability, whereas a scheme is a systematic program or framework that encompasses rules, procedures, and guidelines aimed at achieving particular goals. Certification schemes often involve third-party verification and certification to ensure adherence to the defined standards and criteria. International standards offer a unified approach and best practices that assist organizations globally in enhancing their environmental performance and minimizing emissions. Voluntary certification schemes foster credibility and transparency, ensuring that businesses and organizations follow sustainability benchmarks and contribute to emission reductions. This manuscript will explore the creation of climate neutrality decision models in Latvia through several methods: 1) Conducting a bibliometric literature review; 2) Analysing mandatory certification schemes within the EU that assist organizations and companies in attaining climate neutrality; 3) Justifying the sharing of best practices in key sectors for Latvia: Energy, Agriculture, Forestry, Waste Management, and Industry. It is crucial for Latvia to evaluate the potential advantages and challenges associated with each development scenario, considering both economic interests and sustainable development objectives.