Energy is a fundamental aspect of modern life. It powers everything from basic daily needs to complex industrial processes. But this dependency comes at a cost, with rising demand amplifying energy’s role as a leading source of the global greenhouse gas emissions accelerating climate change.
In recognition of this, last year at COP28 nations pledged to triple renewable energy capacity and double global energy efficiency by 2030. But despite this commitment, the current adoption rate of renewable energy and its enabling technologies is still insufficient to meet global climate targets. Compounding this challenge, climate change is already affecting energy systems and infrastructure, underscoring the urgent need for adaptive and innovative technologies that build resilience and energy security.
We know what needs to be done – our fossil fuel reliance needs to end, and the deployment 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.
This year’s Green Technology Book supports these efforts by serving as a practical guide for policymakers, practitioners, investors, researchers and the public. It offers valuable insights and solutions. Most are already available on the market and all are in the WIPO GREEN Database of Needs and Green Technologies, a comprehensive resource connecting technology seekers and providers featuring 130,000 technologies from over 140 countries – making it the largest green tech platform within the UN system.
Following previous editions, the 3rd edition of the Green Technology Book adopts an end-user perspective, focusing on practical technologies for energy use in cities, rural and agricultural areas, as well as service sectors, in particular, supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and data centers. Rising energy demand within these areas and sectors can be met head-on using existing technologies and there are innovative solutions on the horizon.
A key message of this year’s edition is that the energy transition is for everyone. Technology and innovation are democratizing the process, enabling different forms of decentralized, renewable energy production and offering a wide range of options for energy efficiency and consumption management. This expanding array of flexible solutions creates numerous opportunities for active participation by cities, utilities, businesses, communities and citizens.
Lastly, we must emphasize that clean energy solutions are important not only for climate mitigation, but also for adaptation and resilience. New technologies strengthen energy systems against climate impacts, while at the same time providing sustainable energy for populations lacking access to energy. They provide a wealth of co-benefits as well, creating jobs, stimulating local economies, improving food security and leading to better health outcomes and general well-being.
I extend my sincere thanks to our partners at the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) and the Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ARST) for their ongoing collaboration and dedication to advancing climate technology and action.
Daren Tang
WIPO Director General