Despite numerous international commitments to promote transfer of climate-change related technologies to developing countries, such transfers are not occurring at a sufficient rate to aid these nations in mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change. The impact of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) on transfer of these technologies is discussed through a detailed examination of relevant TRIPS provisions. The paper also addresses options for improving technology transfer through exploitation of existing TRIPS flexibilities, modification of the Agreement, and other public and private legal and policy avenues.
Executive Summary -- Introduction -- The Trips Agreement and Technology Transfer -- Options for Dealing With TRIPS Deficiencies -- Concurrent Policies Promoting Climate-Change-Related Technology Transfer -- Conclusion -- Annex A. Prior international commitments to technology transfer -- Annex B. Relevant selections from the TRIPS agreement.

iv, 44 p. : graph, tables

Includes bibliographical references (p. 22-25).
Available also at Department of Economic Social Affairs website (viewed on 8 Apr. 2009).