Celebrating World Intellectual Property Day 2024
World Intellectual Property Day (26 April) highlights the vital role of Intellectual Property (IP) rights in driving technological advancements that propel us towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year, the European Patent Office (EPO) and IP offices across Europe have launched a social media campaign to spark an interest in IP, and through the inspiring video linked below, invite everyone to join us in championing sustainability.
Catalyst for change
The 2024 theme "IP and the SDGs: Building our common future with innovation and creativity," underscores the indispensable contribution of intellectual property in shaping a sustainable future aligned with the SDGs. From fostering groundbreaking inventions to nurturing creative endeavours, IP rights serve as catalysts for positive change on a global scale.
On this special day, we celebrate and empower individuals, organisations, and innovators who harness the power of intellectual property to address pressing global challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable world. Through their ingenuity and dedication, they exemplify how IP rights can be leveraged to create impactful solutions that benefit society and the planet.
Further information
Related items
Documents accessible via Espacenet, paper copies no longer mailed
PATLIB2024 conference in Türkiye focuses on Strategic Plan 2028, digitalisation and support for SMEs
EPO President ushers in new era for PATLIB network, participates in high-level meetings and signs Memorandum of Understanding with METU
Experts discuss modernised approach and share advice and benefits for candidates
Change of practice for EPC and PCT proceedings from 1 October 2024
Latest Trilateral initiatives to support the next generation of innovators and UN SDG 4
EQE 2024 results: contributing to the quality and sustainability of the patent system. Enrolment for EQE 2025 ongoing.
New study and platform from the EPO help all stakeholders understand the technologies and trends shaping water supply, management and protection
At their annual meeting, the world’s five largest IP Offices focus on the role of IP in contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
This report looks at Europe's cleantech innovators, highlighting their activities and the support they need to bring their inventions to market.
Exhibition on firefighting technologies inaugurated in Sežana
The EPO will begin implementing a new sustainability-focused strategy following its adoption by the Administrative Council.
Exhibition on firefighting technologies opens in the heart of Athens and EPO President meets with Greek Minister
New policy entered into force on 1 January 2024
Acknowledgements of receipt go solely digital from 1 February 2024
New data added to the clean energy technology platform and Deep Tech Finder. Register for online seminar discussing this technology on 7 December.
Digital event provides record number of users with a wealth of resources on EPO online services, including several new features
Patent analyses show that innovation in offshore wind energy is on the rise again, with China the driving force.
Trilateral Offices collaborate to advance SDG 4 on quality education at annual meeting.
EPO delegation participates at major biennial forum held by the Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
The EPO highlights the power of patents in driving sustainable development.