Rouse, an international IP services business, and Maersk, a logistics and transportation company, are partnering to launch the IP Charter for Energy Transition (IP4ET). A first-of-its-kind cross-industry initiative, IP4ET brings together organisations from across the IP ecosystem to develop and share practical solutions to help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the IP ecosystem, and facilitate the transition to solutions with lower GHG emissions.
Built on the idea that real impact requires joint action, the IP4ET provides a platform for organisations to exchange knowledge and experiences, and create, propose and implement practices that lower GHG emissions. From IP/law firms to IP owners, Patent and Trademark Offices (PTOs) to IP technology and service providers, the IP4ET encourages broad participation, helping to create a ripple effect across the IP industry. It is open to join and, in time, will include access to a range of tools, resources, and peer-led task forces.
The initiative is co-led by Rouse, a firm that has previously developed tools to shine a light on the relationships between IP and climate change, alongside Maersk, a company committed to decarbonising its industry. Together, they bring a unique combination of legal and operational expertise to help drive change across the IP ecosystem. Current early members of the IP4ET include, in addition to Rouse and Maersk, CIP, Convey, Dilworth IP, Essity, Iprova, RightHub, Topsoe, WeLocalize, and Carlsberg.
Practical measures include assessing the GHG emissions linked to the protection, management, exploitation and enforcement of intellectual property rights, and making informed decisions on how to mitigate said emissions. CLIPMATE™, Rouse’s IP carbon footprint calculator, has computed, for example, that a European patent filing with 2 office actions and validation in all EU member states emits 82 kilograms of CO₂e. or about 4 trees’ annual absorption.
The IP community should increasingly focus on aligning IP work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While all SDGs should be pursued holistically, the IP4ET is starting with SDG 13, Climate Action, to help raise awareness of the vital link between intellectual property and climate action.
Fabrice Mattei, Global Head of the Patent Group and Climate Change Head at Rouse, said: “Climate change is no longer a buzzword it is a global, everyday reality that demands action across all sectors, from the creation and protection of intangible assets to the production and export of goods/services. Rapidly evolving sustainability regulations are reshaping both the business environment and the IP landscape.
As one of the first firms to integrate the SDGs into IP strategy, Rouse is at the forefront of this transformation. The IP4ET provides public and private sector stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate complex SDG-related regulations and unlock opportunities for meaningful integration with IP in an increasingly carbon-constrained economy.”
Simone Frattasi, Head of Global IP at Maersk, said: “The IP4ET is founded on the belief that every ecosystem has the potential to drive positive change, and that true impact is achieved through collective effort. By harnessing the strength of its community, the IP4ET seeks to raise awareness, address pressing questions, and accelerate the adoption of practices and technologies that lower GHG emissions.”
IP4ET consists of an Advisory Board and the Members, who will attend bi-annual meetings to track progress and share learnings.
For more information or to join the IP4ET, please visit www.ip4et.com.
