New Green IP Report launched

To coincide with the launch of COP26 we have released a new report into Green IP.  Our report examines the role of patents in making innovative ‘green’ technologies into a reality as well as how the patent landscape can be used to identify opportunities for partnering, collaboration and investment.

It details commercially-focused innovation across a diverse range of technologies that seek to reduce the negative impact of human activities on the climate and natural environment. From repurposing carbon dioxide to make protein-rich foods, to the prospect of an AI-mediated renewable energy supply and harnessing electric vehicle battery technology to drive energy efficiency in consumer devices, the report highlights how patents are crucial to expediting cutting-edge technologies.

Using information from the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Patentscope database, the report also reveals a steep increase in the number of patent applications for ‘climate change mitigating technologies’ (CCMTs) over the last decade. Numbers have more than doubled since 2012. 

The data also identifies the green technology areas that receive the most attention from innovators. By far the most prominent is energy generation and transmission which accounts for 35% of all patent applications, followed by those related to goods production and processing at 20%.

Jeremy Webster, Partner and European Patent Attorney, who led the report, said:

“COP26’s ambitions are commendable but it is real-world and tangible positive change that will be the real measure of success. There is scope to do more, and we call on both governments and business to examine challenges to green innovation.”

“Patents are both a driver and a barometer of innovation, and this applies to developments in climate change mitigation as much as it does to any other area of technology".

"It’s therefore crucial that businesses involved in developing new solutions to the climate crisis, and governments aiming to cut carbon emissions, have an in-depth understanding of the patent landscape for CCMTs. Without this it will be impossible to work efficiently towards technological solutions that we can embed in the mainstream.”

If like us you are inspired and motivated by what you read in this report, and you are determined to make a difference, please get in touch – we would love to hear your story and understand your vision. In turn, we commit to work with you to navigate the IP challenges on your journey and to help realise your ambitions.

Read our Green Tech blog series. 

We explore the EPO report "Patents for tomorrow's plastics" in Intellectual Property Magazine.