IPR needs its own sustainability transition

Sustainable innovation plays a crucial role in changing and adapting our economic system to meet the demands of sustainability. Intellectual property rights (IPR) – such as patents and trademarks – can have a surprising impact in making business more environmentally sustainable.

“Many consider intellectual property rights to be a hindrance to sustainability, as they drive consumerism and encourage overproduction. However, they are a key factor working in both directions, meaning that they can also promote sustainability,” says Professor Jukka Mähönen.

, Professor of Cooperative Law, and , Professor of Copyright Law, are exploring how IPR-related incentives can optimally benefit sustainability in the , funded by the Academy of Finland.

“The sustainability challenge is a matter of life and death to humankind, which is why sustainability must be assessed in all business-related regulation,” Taina Pihlajarinne says.

Intellectual property rights are exclusive rights designed to encourage innovative and creative work and prevent competitors from getting a free ride. Examples of intellectual property rights include patents, trademarks, copyright and design rights.

In practice, intellectual property rights grant their holder strong protection, providing financial security and predictability for business. But from an environmental perspective, strong rights can be problematic.