The USPTO Climate Mitigation Pilot Program concluded its initial phase on June 5, 2023. Its primary objective was to accelerate the review process for patent applications focused on minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. This program was established in response to an Executive Order that emphasized the urgent need to address the climate crisis both in the United States and internationally.

In an announcement made on June 1, 2023, the USPTO revealed an extension of the program until June 7, 2027. Along with the time extension, two additional expansions were introduced. First, the USPTO has opted to broaden the scope of eligible subject matter for expedited examination. Now, any patent that contributes to the advancement of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions is included. This includes patents focused on greenhouse gas removal, reduction/prevention, or monitoring. Second, the previous limit of 4 applications per inventor has been raised to 12 applications, allowing inventors to submit a greater number of patent applications within the program.

For more information about the Climate Mitigation Pilot Program and its expansion, please see the USPTO’s publication: https://www.uspto.gov/about-us/news-updates/uspto-expands-and-extends-climate-change-mitigation-pilot-program