Sony and Others Go Open with Patents on Environmental Technologies

Sony Corp. announced on January 15, 2008 that the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), IBM (U.S.), Nokia (Finland), and Pitney Bowes (U.S.) have established an "Eco-Patent Commons," a commonly shared asset of pledged patents focused on environmental technologies. The pledged portfolio of patents in the Eco-Patent Commons is available on a web site hosted by the WBCSD (see the URL listed below).

Members of the Eco-Patent Commons expect that making available dozens of innovative patents on environmental technologies will encourage people working in all industry sectors to create, apply, and further develop industrial products, processes, and services in a way that will help protect the environment. Examples of the environmental benefits expected in applying pledged patents include energy conservation or improved energy or fuel efficiency, pollution prevention (source reduction, waste reduction), use of environmentally preferable materials or substances, water or materials use reduction, and increased recycling opportunities.

Membership in the Eco-Patent Commons is open to all individuals and companies pledging one or more patents. The founding members of the Eco-Patent Commons are inviting other interested companies to participate in this initiative to promote innovation and collaboration to help protect the planet.

http://www.wbcsd.org/web/epc
http://www.sony.net/

Posted: 2008/05/14 11:21:23 AM