Green Channel for patent applications

Background

1. On 12 May 2009, a "Green Channel" for patent applications will come into force. Under this service applicants will be able to request accelerated processing of their application if the invention relates to a 'green' or environmentally-friendly technology.

Procedure

2. To enter the Green Channel, the applicant must make a request in writing, indicating:

  • that their application relates to a ‘green’ or environmentally-friendly technology and
  • which actions they wish to accelerate: Search, Combined Search and Examination, Publication, and/or Examination.

The Office will require no further reasons for accelerated processing.

3. This service will apply to existing applications as well as to applications filed after 12 May 2009.

Further information

4. You can find further information about the various accelerated services we offer in our patents fast grant guidance PDF document(166Kb).

Enquiries

5. Any enquiries about this notice should be made to:

Patents Legal Section

Intellectual Property Office
Concept House
Cardiff Road
Newport
South Wales
NP10 8QQ
United Kingdom

Tel: +44(0)1633 814807
Fax: +44(0)1633 814491

Sarah Barker
Patents Legal Section
12 May 2009