Mapping UK patents shows priorities for government

Build on strength in renewable energy and Covid-related technologies, say Ralf Martin and his colleagues

The impacts of the pandemic have devastated lives and livelihoods. As yet, the timing and shape of the recovery remain uncertain. Private sector investment in innovation typically suffers in downturns, and prolonged disruptions in education and work leave long-term scars on people and the labour market. 

The damage comes on top of other structural challenges for the UK economy. These include poor productivity, inequality between and within regions and the commitment to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050.