E3G

E3G report launch: Innovation and Technology Transfer: Framework for a Global Climate Deal

By Shane Tomlinson, Pelin Zorlu and Claire Langley

Following months of research and discussion, we are pleased to announce the launch of the new E3G report: “Innovation and Technology Transfer: Framework for a Global Climate Deal”.

In 2007 the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its most definitive report to date, finding that human-induced climate change is already happening and will lead to catastrophic results if not addressed quickly.  International negotiations are underway on a post-2012 framework for stabilising global greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change impacts.  An unprecedented global effort is required to accelerate innovation and diffusion of low carbon and adaptation technologies.  The challenge is formidable but history shows that in a variety of fields, from the space race to the pharmaceuticals industry, concerted effort can deliver transformative results.

This report, produced by E3G and Chatham House, proposes a new institutional framework for the innovation and diffusion of low carbon and adaptation technologies, and points to critical features needed in the international agreement due to be signed at the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties in Copenhagen in December 2009.  The report argues that:

Faster and broader innovation is critical for delivering climate security while preserving energy security;

Current innovation programmes are not adequate to manage the risk of policy failures and higher ranges of climate sensitivity;

Developed countries need to shift their national strategic innovation priorities if international cooperation is to be effective;

Developing countries require support to build effective innovation systems not just narrow technology transfer;

Delivering innovation faster and to scale requires the creation of strong new markets for innovative low carbon products and a diversity of cooperation initiatives;

A failure to constructively tackle IPR and competitiveness issues will limit the pace of innovation and diffusion, and potentially poison the international climate negotiations.

Pdf versions of the Executive Summary and the Full Report are attached for download. A Chinese translation for the Executive Summary is also available to download above; the Full Report will be available to download shortly. For more information, comments and feedback, please contact Shane Tomlinson or Pelin Zorlu of .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

A related press release focusing on IPR is available to download above.