In the current scenario, marked by growing global attention to environmental challenges, the development of technologies aimed at sustainable agriculture has become increasingly relevant. There is a continuous rise in the demand for innovative solutions that enable more efficient use of soil and water resources while promoting biodiversity, thereby contributing to more balanced and sustainable agricultural systems.
Aligned with this global trend, the Brazilian Patent and Trademark Office (BRPTO) has been implementing mechanisms to enhance patent examination prosecution, ensuring alignment with national strategic priorities. Among these initiatives, the fast-track examination program stands out, particularly the Green Patents modality. This program encompasses patent applications related to the mitigation of environmental impacts, including technologies focused on alternative energy, transportation, energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
In this context, the BRPTO recently analyzed approximately 6,300 patent applications related to sustainable agriculture and published the Green Technologies Observatory on this matter. The survey covers solutions such as:
- sustainable pesticides;
- biofertilizers;
- digital agriculture;
- machinery, devices and equipments;
- new plant varieties;
- irrigation systems; and
Among the applications analyzed, 73% are concentrated in the first two categories above-mentioned, sustainable pesticides and/or biofertilizers, totalizing 1,302 patent applications related to both technological areas.
Regarding the Applicants, the data indicate that Brazil represents a strategic market for international Applicants. The five leading countries of origin for patent applications filings are the United States, Germany, Switzerland, Israel, and India. Notably, the United States leads in both of the two main technological areas, with 1,220 patent applications in sustainable pesticides and 961 in biofertilizers. In parallel, Brazil stands out significantly in biofertilizers, with 584 patent applications fillings. Germany holds an intermediate position in both areas, while Switzerland, India, and Israel present comparatively lower volumes, with variations between sustainable pesticides and biofertilizers (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Leading countries of origin for patent applications related to sustainable agriculture in Brazil (sustainable pesticides and biofertilizers) – Graph adapted from data provided in the “Green Technologies Observatory” published by the BRPTO, 2026.
Regarding the others technological solutions in sustainable agriculture analyzed, their relevance within the international landscape is evident. Foreign Applicants exhibit a more diversified innovation profile, with investments distributed among the different technologies (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Percentage comparison between Brazil and foreign countries by technological area – Graph adapted from data provided in the “Green Technologies Observatory” published by the BRPTO, 2026.
Furthermore, the Green Technologies Observatory indicates that 19% of the analyzed patent applications include at least one Brazilian Applicant, while also outlining the technological profile of innovations developed by Brazilians (Figure 3).
Figure 3. Percentage distribution of technologies developed by Brazilians – Graph adapted from data provided in the “Green Technologies Observatory” published by the BRPTO, 2026.
Therefore, sustainable innovation is firmly established as a continuing trend in technological transformation. The green patent program, beyond expediting patent examination, functions as an important public policy instrument by fostering innovation directed toward a low-carbon economy, environmental preservation, and the efficient use of natural resources. This trend is reflected in the advancement of biologicals, the increasing digitalization of agriculture, and the development of new plant varieties, contributing to improved productive efficiency, reduced environmental impacts, and enhanced competitiveness of Brazil’s agricultural sector.