21.10.2025
For climate tech startups, securing a granted patent swiftly can be commercially critical - whether that is for attracting investment, deterring competitors, supporting licensing, or obtaining ‘Patent Box’ tax relief.
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While the standard UK patent process typically spans two to four years, the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) offers a combination of mechanisms for shortening the process.
This article outlines the fastest route to grant, which can be reduced to under one year by making strategic use of the Green Channel for environmentally beneficial inventions.
The Green Channel for patent applications was introduced by the UKIPO in 2009 and enables accelerated processing of patent applications where the invention has an environmental benefit. It is relevant for technologies such as:
The applicant must make a request in writing, which can be submitted on filing, indicating:
(i) How the application is environmentally-friendly; and
(ii) Which actions the Applicant wishes to accelerate: search, examination, combined search and examination, and/or publication.
The UKIPO does not conduct a detailed assessment but will reject clearly unfounded claims. In our experience, it is often reasonably straightforward to demonstrate an 'environmental benefit’ and our attorneys would typically mention any such benefits when drafting your patent application, such that the benefits are readily apparent or derivable.
There is no fee for using the service.
The timeline outlined below illustrates how each stage may progress under this accelerated pathway, showing how applicants can benefit from early feedback, streamlined examination, and faster access to enforceable rights.
GB2623457B - Construction block and building system
A modular construction block made from a moulded hollow polymer body, including recycled polymer materials and filler for maximum environmental benefit, enabling easy assembly into walls and similar structures.
Filing date: 18 January 2024
Grant date: 16 October 2024
Time to grant: 272 days (8 months, 28 days)
GB2624129B - Rocket engine
A rocket engine with an integrated turbopump architecture that is lighter and has reduced part count due to the integration, providing a more environmentally sustainable rocket engine by way the reduced mass and ability to hydrolox fuel, which avoids release of carbon dioxide.
Filing date: 9 February 2024
Grant date: 18 December 2024
Time to grant: 313 days (10 months, 9 days)
While acceleration offers clear advantages, it may not suit all applicants. Early publication places the invention in the public domain sooner, which may not align with commercialisation plans. Applicants should consider, amongst other factors:
• Commercial need: Whether early grant is required for investment, licensing, or enforcement;
• Cost management: A slower process helps defer prosecution and validation costs;
• Strategic flexibility: Keeping the application pending allows for claim amendments in response to market trends, product developments, or competitor activity; and
• Timing alignment: Delayed grant may better align with product launch or commercial strategy.
If you are developing technology with environmental benefits and would like advice on using the Green Channel or other acceleration mechanisms, please contact Nathaniel Taylor or another trusted member of Keltie’s patent team.
08.07.2025
Q&A with Richard Lawrence: Real-world IP for a fast-moving worldThe IAM Patent 1000 is a respected global guide to leading patent professionals and firms. With over two decades of experience at the forefront of intellectual property law, Richard Lawrence brings both technical depth and commercial clarity to the complex worlds of cryptography, telecoms, AI, and quantum computing.
09.12.2025
Case Law Review: Board of Appeal Decision T 2353/22A recent Board of Appeal decision upheld the COMVIK test as the gold standard for determining whether computer-implemented methods are technical or not, and assessing inventive step.
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