2013

88% disapprove of littering in forests; 18% mention wearing socks with sandals

Even though 18 percent of Latvian residents believe that wearing socks with sandals is absolutely unacceptable and 80 percent condemn public urination, littering in forests and along roadsides is considered the most inappropriate behaviour, according to a survey carried out by Cūkmens (Pigman), the mascot for JSC Latvia’s State Forests’ (LVM) campaign “Don’t Litter in Forests!”. Cūkmens has survey Latvian residents and created the Golden Code of Conduct – a special environmental object containing norms of decorum for Latvian residents and guests to observe in our country.

80 percent of Latvian residents point out that a disrespectful attitude toward national symbols is absolutely unacceptable, 74 percent mention smoking near children, 65 percent - non-disabled motorists parking in a space reserved for disabled persons, 56  - a lack of respect for older people. Most residents, however, (88 percent) believe that it is categorically unacceptable to litter in forests or along roadsides.

Cūkmens, LVM protector of a clean and tended environment, has compiled Latvia’s rules of conduct in the Golden Code of Conduct, which will be on display on Rīga’s Town Hall Square until the end of September, revealing to each and everyone the basic principles of good conduct in Latvia in a creative and easy-to-understand manner. The Golden Code of Conduct, as an informative booklet, will also be available in Latvia’s largest tourism and information centers.

“Even though a tossed out plastic bottle or a bubble gum wrapper may not seem like a big deal, by continuing littering and behaving like pigs, Latvia may turn into a huge pile of garbage in ten years. Seeing people littering in forests, I began wondering if pig-like behaviour is in our nature and if littering is a common practice in Latvia. The good news is that littering in forests and on streets is considered by Latvian residents as just as unacceptable as disrespecting national symbols and public urination. May the Golden Code of Conduct serve as a reminder to all residents and guests – do not act like pigs, respect the country you are in and observe the basic norms of behaviour, emphasizes Cūkmens.

Tourists believe that recreational opportunities in forests and nature are Latvia’s main advantages. “Foreign tourists highly appreciate the fact that Latvia is green and tended, peaceful and quiet with a breath of fresh air. Natural environments have become exclusive in many countries and we should appreciate these values, praised by foreign tourists, in our everyday lives. Cūkmens’ Golden Code of Conduct is an excellent reminder, especially taking into account that recreation in nature is becoming increasingly popular among local residents,”says Latvian Tourism Development Agency Director Armands Slokenbergs.

For Latvia to maintain its advantages – unspoiled nature and clean forests, 83 percent of residents believe that the applicable punishment for littering should be community service – removing litter from forests, 37 percent mention fines of up to LVL 1,000, 27 percent – public shaming, 14 percent – up to 15 days in detention, 10 percent – making litterers sit on anthills.

Additional information:

Ilze Meirupska

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,

Phone: 28377234