Aspects of Formation of Legal Status of Subterranean Depths

Abstract

The aim of the study is to identify and investigate ownership trends in exploration and use of subterranean depths of Latvia, by examining aspects of legal status of subterranean depths. The following methods were used as part of the study: (1) analytical method used for gaining and analysing the amount of information obtained, as well as for structuring research work; (2) comparative method for analysis and comparison of legal frameworks between European continent countries for the use of subterranean depths in regulatory enactments; (3) empirical method based on facts obtained objectively and systematically through collection of information. The main results of the study include: 1. Today, when society’s demand for energy is growing rapidly to ensure the well-being of society, and technology is evolving more rapidly so that energy resources can be used in an increasingly economic way, it is important to be able to separate the public’s common interest and private interest in energy resources located in the subterranean depths. 2. In the 21st century Latvia, legal framework for the ownership of subterranean depths has not carried out the introduction of a legal framework corresponding to the needs of modern society and technological capabilities to be able to perform systematically both the search and exploration of new mineral resources and other resources of subterranean depths and the establishment of a national strategy for the exploitation of subterranean depths.