Strong IP Growth For Green Innovators In Australia

by Mary Swire, Tax-News.com, Hong Kong

29 April 2009

A 250% jump in green trademarks in the energy sector over the past five years – compared to the previous five years – is just one indication of strong growth in intellectual property (IP) applications for green technologies in Australia.

Reflecting on World Intellectual Property Day on April 26, the country's Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr, has 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% and 50% respectively over the past five years," Senator Carr explained, adding:

"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 recognize the importance of being green if they are to succeed in today’s marketplace."

Remarking further, Mr Carr continued:

"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," he concluded.

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