Technology Transfer in the International Climate Change Negotiations: Assessment of Proposals and Discussion of Open Questions

Abstract

This study provides an assessment of the state of international negotiations on technology transfer following the UNFCCC meeting in Copenhagen in December 2009. The study identifies areas of consensus and convergence in the negotiations, and it highlights continued sources of controversy. The study evaluates several aspects of a prospective post-Copenhagen agreement on technology transfer against experience and insights contained in the academic literature. It provides guidance for negotiators as they debate how to operationalize and implement an international framework for technology in the wake of the Copenhagen Accord and leading to COP 16 in Mexico. Lastly, it gives an in-depth assessment of two of the remaining areas significant disagreement between Parties – intellectual property rights and monitoring, reporting, and verification – and offers some suggestions for a constructive way forward.

Keywords: Technology Transfer, UNFCCC, Intellectual Property Rights, International Climate Change Negotiations

JEL Classification: Q54, Q55, Q58, O19, O30