SciDev.Net reports on the establishment of the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) which aims to transfer technology from rich nations to developing countries without compromising intellectual property or business advantage,

The CTCN consists of a consortium under the UN’s Technology Mechanism, involving a range of organizations from around the world, including the World Agroforestry Centre, which can provide detailed advice on various technology issues to a country on request.

As well as transferring expertise and technology, the CTCN is expected to “provide a platform for sharing knowledge and build capacity in entrepreneurship and in developing policies and programmes to attract foreign investment in climate technologies,” says the article.

The CTCN will also work on expanding international partnerships for environmentally sound technologies, particularly among communities in developing countries.

One example of how the CTCN might help transfer climate technology is to help a country with variable rainfall and an under-resourced agricultural research institute to develop strategies for drought-resistant crops and involve regional, national and international institutions in joint research.

While it is not a funding body, the CTCN will provide technical assistance and help countries to access donor support. It will also investigate issues associated with intellectual property.

Read the full story: Paving the way for tech transfer