China has emerged as the leading nation in green and low-carbon patent applications, according to a recent report from the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).
The report highlights that in 2023, China secured the top position for the number of published green and low-carbon patents, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 20%. This surge accounts for over half of the global total, underscoring China’s pivotal role in advancing eco-friendly technologies.
The report defines green and low-carbon patents as those focused on technologies that foster green development, covering five essential areas: carbon reduction of fossil energy, energy saving and recycling, clean energy, energy storage, and greenhouse gas capture, utilization, and storage.
China excelled particularly in the energy storage sector, with a staggering 37,000 patent applications filed in 2023, which represents 48% of the global volume. Additionally, the nation led the world in invention patent applications for clean energy technologies, with solar energy and hydrogen energy patents reaching 8,000 and 5,000 applications, respectively.
Furthermore, China’s engagement with the international patent protection system, the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), saw over 5,000 applications for green and low-carbon technologies in 2023, securing the top global position for the third consecutive year. This achievement reinforces China’s standing as a powerhouse in innovation and sustainable technology.
Since 2019, China has maintained its status as the world’s leading filer of patent applications, a trend recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization. The robust growth in patent filings not only reflects China’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also its strategic focus on becoming a global leader in green technology.
As countries worldwide grapple with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, China’s advancements in green and low-carbon patents signal a proactive approach to fostering sustainable development and addressing global environmental concerns.
