The Kyoto Protocol and International Technology Transfer: An Empirical Analysis Using Patent Data

Abstract:     
This paper examines the effect of the Kyoto Protocol on the international transfer of technologies relevant for climate change mitigation. The analysis is conducted using patent data on over 100 countries during a 20-year period 1985-2004. It is found that public policy plays a significant role in determining technology transfer. In particular, the degree of commitment and differences in the degree of commitment between pairs of Annex 1 countries has an effect on transfer. Transfers from Annex 1 countries to non-Annex 1 countries are significantly affected by involvement with the Clean Development Mechanism.

Keywords: Environmental Policy, Innovation, Patents, Climate Change, Technological Change, Technology Transfer, Kyoto Protocol, Clean Development Mechanism

JEL Classifications: Q55, Q58, O34, O38, F59

Working Paper Series