Dozens of eco-related patents have been released into the public domain by IBM and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development in an effort to encourage other companies to use the information to develop more sustainable products and services.
The Eco-Patent Commons will also include partners such as Nokia, Sony, and Pitney Bowes, and any other company willing to pledge one or more patents; participants pledge patents that will improve energy conservation, pollution prevention, eco-friendly materials use, water use reduction, and recycling opportunities.