Accelerating the development of new less GHG intensive technologies and promoting their global diffusion — in particular in fast-growing emerging economies — is imperative in achieving the transition to a low-carbon economy. Is this taking place? Let’s have a look on patent applications worldwide.
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While its primary goal is to save abatement costs, the Clean Development Mechanism is considered by many as a key means to boost technology transfer and diffusion to developing countries. Is there empirical evidence on this secondary effect?
The first phase of the EU Emission Trading Scheme which started in January 2005 will end in December 2007. Undoubtedly, the carbon price currently close to zero – €0.56 per ton of CO2 on May 3, 2007 – is the most striking fact of this period. And observers agree that it will remain at this level until next Christmas. How can this be explained? Does it imply that the first phase is a failure? Continue reading »
