Climate change has become one of the world's most significant issues, not only environmentally but also economically and socially. The importance of technological innovations and the patent systems that protect them for a sustainable future is growing rapidly. Patents not only protect innovative ideas but also encourage investment in technologies that support environmental sustainability.
In this context, green patents and their carbon footprint-based evaluation are emerging as essential tools in prioritizing environmentally friendly technologies.
Green Patents and Their Importance
Green patents are intellectual property rights focused on environmentally friendly technologies and innovative solutions. Patents developed in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, energy efficiency, and carbon capture technologies play a key role in achieving sustainable development goals.
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has created the WIPO GREEN platform, which aims to increase the applicability of green patents by connecting those who develop eco-friendly technologies with those who need them. Additionally, the OECD's ENV-TECH classification and the European Patent Office's (EPO) Y02/Y04S classifications ensure the systematic identification and tracking of green patents.
In sectors with high carbon emissions such as energy, transportation, and waste management, the number and impact of green patents are critical indicators in transitioning to a sustainable economy.
Carbon Footprint-Based Evaluation of Patents
Traditionally, patents have been evaluated based on criteria such as citation count, technology usage, and market reach. However, these methods do not consider the environmental impact of patents. To address this gap, the carbon footprint-based evaluation of patents has come to the forefront.
A patent's carbon footprint refers to the carbon emissions involved in the production, use, and disposal processes of the technology it develops. New tools enable the analysis of patent texts to identify keywords related to carbon emissions, and through these keywords, the carbon footprint is calculated. This data makes it possible to rank patents based on their carbon footprint (patent ranking).
Patent Ranking and Environmental Impact
The patent ranking system prioritizes technologies with a low carbon footprint. For example:
Weighted Citation Method: In addition to how often a patent is cited, its environmental impact is also evaluated.
Carbon Footprint Evaluation: Patents that minimize carbon emissions are scored higher.
This type of ranking provides guidance for companies to make their patent portfolios more eco-friendly. It also offers valuable insights for investors and policymakers on which technologies should be prioritized.
The Role of Green Patents in Sustainability
The impact of green patents goes beyond the development of technology. These patents are also an integral part of a broader sustainability strategy:
Environmental Reporting and ESG Scores: Carbon footprint analysis of patents strengthens companies' environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting.
Investment Attractiveness: Companies with low-carbon patents become more attractive for sustainable investments.
Regulatory Compliance: Green patents help companies achieve their carbon neutrality goals and comply with national or international regulations.
Patents have become powerful tools that contribute to environmental sustainability beyond protecting innovation. To build a cleaner, more sustainable future, patent systems should be integrated with environmental assessment methods, thereby supporting green innovations. This approach will open the doors to a more resilient future for both companies and societies.
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