Hello! Today, I want to ask about the unique landscapes of Latvia. From what I’ve researched, Latvia is famous for having many unique and beautiful landforms. I’ve also looked up some pictures, and there are so many beautiful places, such as the Erglu Cliffs, Ķemeri Bog, Zilie Kalni, Daugava River Valley, and Slītere Coastal Cliff! After seeing the pictures and learning more about these landscapes, I have a few questions.
1. Erglu Cliffs
What plants and birds inhabit the Erglu Cliffs?
I heard there are ancient legends about the Erglu Cliffs. Could you tell me some of them?
2. Ķemeri Bog
What unique plants or animals can be found only in Ķemeri Bog?
What is the surrounding environment like in the bog?
I know there are several bogs like Ķemeri in Latvia. How are these bogs utilized in the country?
3. Zilie Kalni
I understand that Zilie Kalni has been developed for various tourist activities, like ski tracks and adventure tracks using ropes and trees to overcome obstacles. However, as these activities increase, doesn't this harm the environment and disrupt the vegetation?
4. Daugava River Valley
The Daugava River Valley is said to have a mythical forest, giving it a special nickname. What is this nickname? Also, could you tell me about any historical events that took place there?
Are there any places where human-made landscapes blend harmoniously with nature along the river?
5. Slītere Coastal Cliff
I heard that the Slītere Cliff was once below the sea. Are there any visible geological traces or features that indicate this?
There are protected plants and animals near the cliff. How are they protected in this area?
The more I learn about Latvia, the more curious I become, and I really want to visit these places in person! I’d also love to receive some photos of famous spots in the five places I researched. It doesn’t have to be the most famous beautiful spots, but I’d appreciate photos of the most beautiful places there, in your opinion! Also, since I’ve never seen a bog in person, I’m curious about what Latvia’s bogs look like and what the surrounding environment is like. If you could share a photo of a Latvian bog, that would be amazing! If you have any questions about Korea, feel free to ask me anytime! Have a great day!
Hi! My name is Ha-eun Jeong, and I live in South Korea. These days, the weather here is gradually shifting toward spring. Until March, it was still quite cold and windy—there was even some snowfall. But now that April has arrived, cherry blossoms are blooming all over the cities and parks, and many people are going out to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Spring in Korea is usually known for its dry and clear weather, but this year it’s been raining more than usual, so it doesn’t feel as dry. Also, the temperature swings a lot throughout the day—it's chilly in the mornings, so we dress warmly, but by midday, it can get hot enough to walk around in short sleeves.
What’s a bit sad is that this year’s weather feels noticeably different from previous years. It stayed cold for a lot longer, and it even snowed quite a bit in March. These unusual weather patterns really made me feel how serious climate change and environmental issues have become. As extreme weather continues, more people are starting to pay attention to climate change.
In fact, the average annual temperature in Korea has been rising by about 0.2 degrees Celsius every decade. On top of that, we’re experiencing more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves, fine dust, and heavy rain. It’s becoming clearer that climate change is no longer just a scientific concept—it’s a real issue that directly affects our daily lives.
To tackle the climate change crisis, South Korea is making various efforts such as establishing a national strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, expanding renewable energy sources (mainly solar and wind power), increasing the supply of electric and hydrogen vehicles, strengthening regulations on single-use products, and promoting environmental education.
To speak more specifically about the policies being implemented in Korea: in order to respond to climate change and achieve carbon neutrality, the country is strengthening its infrastructure to prepare for climate disasters—for example, by improving systems to prevent floods and droughts and expanding shelters for heatwaves and cold spells. Additionally, through the Carbon Innovation Technology Support Pilot Project, the government is supporting the development of climate technologies. It also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector by expanding the supply of electric and hydrogen vehicles and building more charging infrastructure.
For improving air and water quality, the “Clean Air Package for Our Neighborhood” project focuses on managing air quality in everyday living spaces. Industrial emission caps are gradually being reduced depending on the type and size of businesses. Also, in areas with high risk of algae blooms, the government is promoting projects to reduce non-point source pollution and is expanding support for public livestock manure treatment facilities to prevent water pollution.
Besides these efforts, the government is also implementing policies to reduce plastic usage, such as expanding the use of recycled materials and regulating single-use products to encourage the use of reusable containers.
As I was researching Korea’s environmental policies, I became curious about Latvia’s as well. While looking into it, I came across some interesting points that made me want to ask you a few questions.
First of all, I heard that in October 2024, the Latvian government approved a draft Climate Law developed by the Ministry of Climate and Energy (KEM). This law not only outlines the responsibilities of the national and local governments but also emphasizes the role and responsibility of individual citizens. I’m curious—what kinds of actions are actually expected or encouraged for ordinary people? For example, are there changes in daily life being promoted, like saving energy or using eco-friendly modes of transportation?
One thing I found especially interesting was a project to produce clean methanol using waste wood. It seems like a great policy that makes use of Latvia’s rich forests. How is this methanol expected to be used in everyday life? I heard that it’s mainly aimed at the transportation sector—how do citizens feel about this plan overall? Are people generally optimistic about it, or are there concerns about environmental damage or resource depletion?
I also read that Latvia is taking part in the EU’s REPowerEU plan to promote small-scale renewable energy generation. Do people in your region or around you actually have these self-generation systems installed or in use? And I’m also curious—Latvia is said to be improving energy efficiency by digitalizing its power grid. Has this shift made any real difference in how people use electricity or in their energy costs?
Lastly, I heard that more than half of Latvia’s land is covered by forest and that the country has rich biodiversity. Are there any particularly effective or well-known policies being implemented to protect this natural environment? And are there any programs or campaigns that citizens can directly take part in to help conserve biodiversity?
I’d love to hear more about how your country is working to protect the environment and how ordinary people like you are getting involved. Looking forward to your response!
Hello, I'm Jeong Ha-eun from Incheon Sky High School in South Korea. My birthday is January 16th, and I’m 17 years old in Korean age, a second-year high school student! I really love traveling and enjoy exercising. My favorite color is sky blue, and I absolutely love bread. I really enjoy chatting, so feel free to talk to me anytime😉
To talk more about life in Korea, Korea is a country with four seasons and is located in Asia. You might have already heard of kimchi, hanbok, and other aspects of Korean culture. So I want to share more about the 'lifestyle' of Korean students. In March, all schools start the new school year, and we prepare for it. Especially at our school, we have many activities, and the clubs are very active, so it's a busy time because we’re selecting new members for the clubs and starting various projects. I participate in the drama club and the aviation club at school! In April, we have an important exam. Exams are very important in Korea, so this is the most stressful and difficult time of the year😭 In May, we usually have a sports day. It's like a tournament where we compete in various events divided into teams! In June, we also have exams, and July is summer vacation! It's the most awaited and exciting time of the year. Then in August and September, the next semester begins. In October, we go on a school trip! It's an opportunity to experience nature and culture firsthand!! Our school is planning to go to Japan this year😊 In November, we have exams again… and finally, in December, the much-anticipated school festival begins! Each club sets up a booth for activities where students can participate in face painting, escape rooms, food, mini-games, and more. Then, we enjoy the end of the festival with various performances such as singing, dancing, and bands.
Now, let me talk about the island I live on, Yeongjong Island. Yeongjong Island is home to Incheon International Airport, and it’s where I live. Since it’s an island, there’s the sea right in front of my house, but it’s not just any regular sea. It’s a tidal flat. A tidal flat is a place where the seawater recedes at certain intervals, exposing a flat mud surface. This place is a precious ecosystem where creatures like clams, octopuses, and gobies live. Korea's tidal flats have been listed as a UNESCO site, so if you're interested, I recommend looking it up😁
Now, let me talk about the interests of Korean students. The foods that students love the most are mala tang and tteokbokki! Almost no Korean dislikes these foods. I really want to eat mala tang and tteokbokki right now…😥 Also, taking photos is something that Korean students really enjoy! One popular trend in Korea is photo booths where people can take pictures together with friends or family to keep small memories. Karaoke (noraebang) is also a huge thing in Korea. People go to karaoke to relieve stress and enjoy music, singing k-pop, pop songs, and ballads.
I hope you get to know more about Korea!😉
