WIPO has released the “Green Technology Book” at COP29 on November 19, 2024. The new book focuses on practical energy solutions and highlights the role of technology and innovation in fighting climate change.

The Green Technology Book places innovation, technology, and intellectual property (IP) at the center of efforts to combat climate change. It acts as a practical guide for those looking to take direct action, featuring over 200 energy technology solutions that are either already available or in development. These solutions are designed for use in both rural and urban areas, and include essential services like supermarkets, hospitals, and data centers.

“We know what needs to be done – our fossil fuel reliance needs to end, and the development and scaling of clean energy technologies ramped up. Addressing the gap between developed and developing countries in technology development and adoption is also crucial, necessitating enhanced international cooperation and more efficient technology transfer.” – Daren Tang, Director General of WIPO, emphasized the importance of this book.  

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Edward Kwakwa, Assistant Director General, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector, WIPO noted: “In light of COP28’s ambitious targets and the persistent threat of climate change, this book explores innovative, adaptive strategies to enhance energy security and accelerate the deployment of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies.”

“By partnering with WIPO on the Green Technology Book, the Climate Technology Centre & Network strengthens its mission to connect technology providers with those who need them, equipping businesses, governments, and communities with the tools to tackle climate change”, said Ruth Zugman do Coutto, Deputy Director of the Climate Change Division at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Involving everyone in the energy transition

A main theme of the 2024 book is that the shift to clean energy should include everyone. New technologies and innovation are helping more people take part in energy solutions, from local communities to businesses. This range of green technologies helps improve energy efficiency and gives people more options to manage their energy use.

Developed collaboration with the United Nations Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) and the Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ARST), the book also points out that clean energy is not just for cutting emissions but also for making energy systems more resilient. New smart technologies help protect energy systems from climate impacts and bring sustainable energy to communities that are yet to have access. These solutions can create more jobs, support local economies, improve food security, and lead to better health and well-being.

Top 10 Key Findings of the Green Technology Book

The mapping of hundreds of energy technologies in the database led us to make the following observations:

1.     The energy transition is for everyone

Technology and innovation are enabling a wide range of flexible solutions and opportunities for active participation by utilities, businesses, communities and citizens. Consumers play an important role, while enabling policies and efficient technology transfer are also essential.

2.     Global energy demand is rising sharply

This makes energy production a leading driver of greenhouse gas emissions. Ramping up deployment and scaling of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies is critical to reduce carbon emissions.

3.     Investment in energy efficiency can yield far-reaching and long-term economic and social benefits

Benefits range from reduced energy consumption to lower utility bills to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

4.     Clean energy technologies not only mitigate climate change but also improve adaptation and resilience to climate impacts

They strengthen energy systems by enhancing grid stability, flexibility, and resilience to disruptions, while also promoting local economies and job creation.

5.     Cities are at the forefront of the energy transition

They have the potential to accelerate decarbonization of the transport sector, invest in energy-efficient buildings and implement renewable energy solutions in public spaces.

6.     Waste has untapped potential for energy efficiency and recovery

Addressing food loss and waste can save energy and reduce post-harvest losses, while better waste management strategies can recover energy from organic waste and harness waste heat from industrial processes, machinery, and appliances

7.     Agriculture needs new green energy solutions to feed a growing population sustainably

Green innovations like agrivoltaics and aquavoltaics can contribute to both climate mitigation and adaptation by combining renewable energy generation with food production.

8.     Essential services need to invest in energy-efficiency solutions

Rapidly growing and energy-intensive sectors such as supermarkets, health care and data centers require additional investment in green solutions to address energy usage challenges.

9.     Intellectual property (IP) underpins innovation in the energy sector

By protecting inventions, fostering a competitive environment and publicizing technological knowledge, IP can accelerate the development and deployment of sustainable energy technologies.

10.  Green technology solutions are available

Green technology solutions for energy efficiency and renewable energy are readily available or in the making.

Green Energy Solutions

The WIPO Green Technology Book presents a comprehensive set of solutions, all connected to the WIPO GREEN Database of Needs and Green Technologies. The database showcases a wider array of green solutions and facilitates direct contact with technology proprietors. Additionally, the WIPO Green Technology Book serves as an important matchmaking tool for fostering connections and partnerships in the field