A 250% jump in green trade marks in the energy sector over the past five years — compared to the previous five years — is one indicator showing strong growth in intellectual property (IP) applications for green technologies in Australia.
Reflecting on World Intellectual Property Day, Sunday 26 April, Industry Minister Senator Kim Carr, also pointed to an increase in patent applications as further evidence that industry is adapting to, and finding new ways to combat, the challenges of climate change.
“Patent registrations for solar and clean coal technology applications from Australian and overseas innovators have risen by 15 per cent and 50 per cent respectively over the past five years,” Senator Carr said.
“Combined with the huge jump in green trade marks in the energy sector, these figures clearly show that innovators are tackling climate change head-on.
“Innovators clearly recognise the importance of being green if they are to succeed in today’s marketplace.
“This year’s World IP Day will focus on green innovation and reminds us that innovation and new technologies will play a crucial role in meeting the climate change challenge.
“Registered IP rights, including patents, trade marks, designs and plant breeder’s rights are central to the innovation that drives economic growth.
“They offer exclusive rights for new ideas and create incentives for continued investment in green technologies.
“The IP system allows Australia to benefit from investment in green technologies by protecting that investment, and licensing the technology to other countries.”
In Australia, World IP Day activities are coordinated through IP Australia, the Government agency responsible for administering patents, trade marks, designs and plant breeders’ rights.