Agriculture stands at the center of some of the most critical challenges of the 21st century. Feeding a growing global population, mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity are no longer separate objectives, but interconnected dimensions of a single systemic problem. In this context, sustainability has become not merely an environmental concern, but a strategic economic and technological priority.
The transformation of agriculture into a more sustainable, efficient and resilient sector depends increasingly on innovation. New technologies are expected to deliver higher productivity while reducing environmental impact, optimizing the use of natural resources and lowering greenhouse gases emissions. From biological inputs and precision farming to smart irrigation systems and data-driven agricultural management, innovation has become the main driver of sustainable agricultural development.
Within this global landscape, emerging economies play a particularly relevant role. Countries with large agricultural sectors, rich biodiversity and strong research ecosystems are not only affected by sustainability challenges, but also positioned to become major sources of green technological solutions. Brazil, as one of the world’s largest agricultural producers and a key actor in global environmental debates, offers a particularly illustrative case.
The expression “green technologies” generally refers to technological solutions designed to reduce environmental impacts, improve resource efficiency or support sustainable development. In agriculture, green technologies encompass a wide range of innovations aimed at reconciling productivity with environmental responsibility.
These technologies include, for example:
In practical terms, green technologies in agriculture aim to produce more food using fewer resources, less energy and lower environmental impact. They represent the technological foundation of what is often called the bio-economy or climate-smart agriculture.
While innovation is frequently associated with scientific research, startups and new products, patents also play an important role in the innovation ecosystem. A patent is a legal instrument that grants exclusive rights over a technological invention for a limited period of time, in exchange for public disclosure of technical knowledge.
Beyond their legal function, patents serve three strategic purposes in the context of sustainable innovation. Firstly, patents are economic assets. They enable companies and research institutions to protect investments in research and development, attract funding, negotiate licensing agreements and secure competitive advantages in global markets.
Secondly, patents are knowledge repositories. Patent documents contain detailed technical descriptions of inventions, making them one of the largest publicly available sources of structured technological information in the world. Thirdly, patents are indicators of innovation. The volume, distribution and thematic focus of patent filings are widely used by governments and researchers to map technological trends and evaluate innovation policies.
In view of this background, the Brazilian Patent and Trademark Office (BRPTO) recently published a comprehensive study through its Green Technologies Observatory, dedicated to mapping patent activity related to sustainable agriculture in Brazil.
The study analyzed 6,300 patent and utility model applications filed in Brazil between 2012 and 2025, covering technologies classified as relevant to sustainable agricultural development. The dataset includes both domestic and foreign applicants with emphasis to BASF, DEERE & COMPANY, DOW AGROSCIENCES, MONSANTO and SYNGENTA, offering a broad picture of innovation dynamics in the sector.
One of the main findings is the strong concentration of patent activity in biofertilizers and sustainable crop protection technologies, which together account for approximately 73% of all identified filings. This suggests that the core of green innovation in agriculture lies in biological and chemical solutions aimed at improving productivity while reducing environmental harm.
The study also reveals a high level of international participation. Patent applications originate from 71 different countries, with the United States as the largest source of foreign technologies, followed by Brazil itself, Germany, Switzerland, Israel and India. This confirms that Brazil is not only a major target market for global agricultural innovation, but also a developer of green technologies. At the national level, Brazilian public institutions play a central role. The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), together with universities and research centers, appears as a leading actor.
Although the BRPTO study focuses on Brazil, its implications go far beyond national borders. The Brazilian experience provides valuable insights for the global sustainability agenda and contributes to international benchmarking. This enables cross-country assessments of technological specialization, innovation intensity and sectoral priorities.
Furthermore, the study connects directly with multilateral sustainability frameworks, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and initiatives like WIPO GREEN. Patent-based analyses are increasingly used by international organizations to monitor progress in climate-related technologies and to design cooperation strategies.
The strategic value of patent data in sustainable agriculture is not limited to academic or policy debates. It also has direct implications for business and investment decisions. Patent landscapes can provide critical information for identifying technological trends and competitive positioning, assessing freedom-to-operate risks, or defining R&D priorities.
Patents are also widely used as indicators for technological maturity and innovation potential. Startups and research-based companies with strong patent portfolios are often perceived as more valuable and resilient in technology markets. Furthermore, patent intelligence supports evidence-based decision-making, helping to allocate public funding and identify strategic sectors for national and international cooperation.
The Brazilian study illustrates a broader transformation in how innovation, sustainability and intellectual property are understood. Patents are no longer seen merely as legal instruments or administrative formalities; they are increasingly recognized as infrastructure for sustainable development.
In agriculture, where environmental challenges are particularly acute and innovation needs are systemic, this role becomes even more significant. By mapping technological activity, patent data provides a powerful analytical tool to navigate the global transition towards greener economies. The Brazilian report shows that emerging economies can actively shape global green innovation dynamics as producers of strategic knowledge and technological solutions.
This section gives quick answers to the most common questions about this insight. What changed, why it matters, and the practical next steps. If your situation needs tailored advice, contact the RNA Law team.
Q1: What are green technologies in agriculture according to the BRPTO?
A1: Green technologies encompass solutions like biofertilizers, sustainable crop protection, digital agriculture, smart irrigation systems, and new plant varieties designed to reduce environmental impacts and improve resource efficiency.
Q2: How many patent applications were analyzed in the BRPTO study?
A2: The study analyzed 6,300 patent and utility model applications filed in Brazil between 2012 and 2025.
Q3: Which sectors dominate green innovation in Brazilian agriculture?
A3: Patent activity is heavily concentrated in biofertilizers and sustainable crop protection technologies, representing approximately 73% of the identified filings.
Q4: Who are the leading foreign and domestic applicants in this field?
A4: Major foreign applicants include BASF, Deere & Company, and Monsanto. Domestically, public institutions such as Embrapa and various universities lead the innovation landscape.
