Green Patents and Environmental Sustainability: Role of Patent Law in Combating Climate Change

A nation like India is undergoing fast-paced industrial growth along with severe environmental challenges. We have to face the duality of development, i.e., pursuing the advancement while also trying to uphold our ecological responsibilities. With the escalation of the concerns relating to climate change and worsening environmental conditions, the promotion of sustainable technologies has gained worldwide importance. nearly half of all patents granted in India from 2016 to 2021 were associated with green technologies, with around 25% specifically focused on alternative energy generation. This trend reflects a broader push to expand green technology adoption as a means to stimulate economic growth and promote consumer preference for sustainably produced goods. Some important examples of green technologies in India are solar energy, wind and hydro power, waste management and recycling, and emission control technologies. One of the crucial ways for progressing eco-friendly innovations is green patenting. However, we face the duality of development, i.e., pursuing the advancement while also trying to uphold our ecological responsibilities. The area faces several challenges like legal inconsistencies, gaps in innovation ecosystem as well as barrier to access, and more. This article will explore the role of green patenting as a catalyst for development of environmental sustainability in India, and further discuss these challenges to finally provide some workable recommendations.