Green technology innovation development in China in 1990-2015

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Innovation Studies
• Technology Policy

Background:

• Patent data offers unique advantages for measuring innovation.
• Analyzing environmentally relevant technologies is crucial for understanding green development.
• China's environmental policies have driven significant technological advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the development of green technology innovation in China from 1990-2015.
• To assess the progress of environmental-related patenting activity.
• To identify key areas of green technology growth in China.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a comprehensive analysis of environmentally relevant technology patent data.
• Examined patent trends in China between 1990 and 2015.
• Correlated patent data with China's environmental policies and green development initiatives.

Main Results:

• China's environmental-related technology innovation saw substantial progress between 2000-2015, leading global green technology growth.
• Key achievements were noted in water/wastewater treatment, solar photovoltaic (PV) energy, lighting, chemical/pharmaceutical improvements, and electric vehicles.
• These advancements align with China's long-standing policies on climate change mitigation and green industry transformation.

Conclusions:

• China has made significant strides in green technology innovation, particularly in specific sectors.
• While patent data indicates progress, complete reliance on green technology for future development is still distant.
• Environmental policies have been a strong catalyst for China's green technology advancements.