Green innovation, in particular the development, diffusion and application of clean technologies, can help humans tackle the severe threat of climate change, Francis Gurry, director-general of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), said.

"As human activities caused the problem of climate change, human activities, in particular human ingenuity, can resolve it," Gurry said in an interview with Xinhua ahead of World Intellectual Property Day on April 26.

Gurry, an Australian who took office as chief of the UN agency last October, said green innovation had been chosen as the theme for this year's World IP day to highlight the contribution that a balanced intellectual property system can help to resolve the problem of climate change.

"Green innovation, in particular the development, the diffusion and the application of clean technologies, provides a key to a viable future for humanity," Gurry said.

He said WIPO is also encouraging "green design" of products, as it can help ensure eco-friendly products from the point of conception until its ultimate disposal by the consumer.

In addition, "green branding" is also helpful because it can help consumers make informed choices about the nature of the products they buy, he said.

Gurry said WIPO's 184 member states are encouraged to organize various activities to mark World IP Day, adding many member states, in particular China, are already organizing seminars and discussions.

"It's time for reflection on the role of intellectual property, the role of innovation, the role of design and of branding in creating order in our markets, and ensuring a better future for us all," Gurry said.

"There are many activities being undertaken in China, and I congratulate all of those involved, and encourage them to pursue more such activities in future," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 22, 2009)