A recent publication by the European Patent Office (EPO) has disclosed that Europe is at the forefront of pioneering innovative technologies in the water sector. The report, which scrutinizes international patent families (IPFs), indicates that 40% of all IPFs related to water technologies between 1992-2021 can be attributed to entities from the EPO’s 39 member states, including companies, researchers, and inventors.
The EPO’s report underscores that European innovators are leading the way in all major areas of water technology, encompassing potable water harvesting, efficient water use, wastewater treatment, and flood protection. This is especially crucial in light of the fact that, as per the United Nations, billions of individuals worldwide still lack access to safely managed drinking water and sanitation services.
EPO President António Campinos stressed the significance of water as a precious resource and emphasized the necessity for continued innovation to tackle the challenges presented by climate change. He highlighted the role of the EPO’s study and tools in offering policymakers and the public with valuable data and analysis of the water technology landscape, while also supporting inventors in developing innovative solutions to address global water challenges.
The report also unveiled that water treatment constitutes the largest area of inventions in the water sector, representing approximately 60% of all IPFs filed worldwide between 1992 and 2021. Europe emerged as the leader in water inventions, followed by the US, Japan, China, and the Republic of Korea. Notably, the contribution of universities and public research organizations to water-related IPFs has significantly increased, underscoring the rising trend of university-led innovation in this domain.
In line with its dedication to fostering innovation in water technologies, the EPO has introduced a new technology platform to facilitate access to information about the latest advances in the water sector. This free platform aims to enable scientists, governments, and businesses to navigate the EPO’s online patent database more effectively. Additionally, the EPO has updated its Deep Tech Finder to help investors and potential partners connect with over 100 startups with European patent applications for water-related inventions.
As the global demand for sustainable water solutions continues to grow, Europe’s leadership in propelling innovation in the water sector is poised to make a significant impact. The EPO’s comprehensive study provides invaluable insights into the current landscape of water technology, paving the way for partnerships, collaborations, and investment in this critical area.
For more information, the full report, new platform on water technologies, and the EPO’s Observatory on Patents and Technology are available for further exploration. These resources offer a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for stakeholders to engage with the latest developments in water technology on a global scale.