Oral Presentation Royal Australian Chemical Institute National Congress 2026

Protecting the chemistry that protects the planet (138083)

Claire Gregg 1
  1. Davies Collison Cave, Melbourne, VICTORIA, Australia

As the global community moves toward net‑zero targets, the chemical sciences are under increasing pressure to deliver transformative solutions that reduce carbon intensity while maintaining performance, scalability, and economic viability. In this setting, an effective patent strategy becomes a critical enabler of innovation. This presentation will explore how patents can accelerate the development of low‑carbon technologies across the chemical sector, and examine the unique challenges of patenting in carbon‑constrained fields using real‑world case studies that illustrate how strategic claim drafting, early‑stage research documentation, and awareness of prior‑art trends can enhance the commercial value of sustainable chemical innovations. This presentation will also highlight common pitfalls in patenting environmentally focused chemistry and provide practical guidance for researchers seeking to secure protection while maximising the impact and adoption of their discoveries. By aligning patent strategy with sustainability goals, chemists can help ensure that breakthrough ideas translate into meaningful, scalable solutions for a carbon‑constrained world.