Talk innovation: unlocking technology

What if millions of used electric vehicle (EV)  batteries weren’t waste, but instead a valuable resource? 
Drawing on insights from the International Energy Agency and EPO patent data, this episode explores how battery circularity can extend the life of EV batteries, reduce uncertainty around obtaining critical materials like lithium and cobalt, and support a more sustainable energy future. From second-life applications and advanced recycling technologies to policy developments like digital battery passports, discover how innovation is reshaping the lifecycle of batteries.  
Host: Marguerite McCaughan Communications Manager, EPO   
Guests: Teo Lombardo (International Energy Agency) 
More information:   
Observatory on Patents and Technology 
Technology insight report "Battery circularity - Innovation trends for a future source of critical materials" 
EU Battery Passport

Could better lighting really be the key to unlocking better health and safety outcomes? 
 
Join two EPO examiners as they explore how advances in LED lighting technologies are transforming everyday life. From adaptive lighting systems that support hospital patient recovery to smart brake lights that communicate with other vehicles to reduce accidents, discover how controlled light is becoming a key tool in both safety and healthcare. 
 
Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  
Guest: Ian Morrish, EPO patent examiner in lighting control & electronic circuits

We're surrounded by debris that's invisible to the naked eye. With thousands of inactive satellites orbiting Earth, space is becoming an increasingly critical sustainability frontier.  
In this edited recording from the Inspiring Inventors live event series, Italian aerospace engineer Luca Rossettini explores how autonomous technology can reduce space debris and protect satellites in orbit.  
During his conversation with EPO patent examiner Edward Cooke, Luca traces his journey from childhood dreams of becoming an astronaut to time spent in Silicon Valley and NASA, and how that path led him to founding D-Orbit Group, a space logistics company nominated for the European Inventor Award 2023.  
He breaks down his innovative technology in simple terms and explains its evolution into in-orbit transportation and future space servicing. Along the way, he explores themes related to engineering, entrepreneurship, sustainability and intellectual property.  
Host: Edward Cooke, EPO patent examiner 
Guest: Luca Rossettini, founder and CEO of D-Orbit Group. Finalist for the European Inventor Award 2023. 
More information:   
Luca Rossettini’s profile on epo.org

Reducing aircraft fuel consumption isn't just a question of combating rising prices and scarcity, it's also crucial for protecting our environment.  

Join two EPO patent examiners as they discuss how breakthroughs in aircraft engines, gas turbines and hydrogen are shaping the future of aviation and space mobility. They also explain the role patents play, enabling new discoveries to build on old ones.  

Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  
Guests: Stefano Angelucci, EPO patent examiner in compressors, pumps & gas turbines

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work and innovate, but it is also driving a rapid increase in energy demand, raising urgent questions about sustainability and climate impact.
Drawing on insights from European Patent Office experts and patenting trends across AI, semiconductors, renewable energy and smart grids, this episode highlights how inventors are tackling one of today’s defining challenges. Their innovation will determine whether AI becomes a climate liability or a driver of a more sustainable future.
From more efficient AI models and specialised chips to smart grids, energy storage solutions and cooling systems, discover the technologies that could significantly reduce energy use while enabling AI to continue scaling, unlocking even greater potential.

Host: Jeremy Philpott, EPO communication manager

Guests:
Yann Ménière, EPO Chief Economist
Sandra Zeljkovic, EPO patent examiner in electrical power converters
Nicolas Douarche, EPO patent examiner and team manager in core AI & quantum computing

More information:
EPO Technology Dashboard 2025
EPO's Observatory on Patents and Technology
Sophie Wilson, European Inventor Award finalist 2013
Jaan Leis, Mati Arulepp and Anti Perkson (Skeleton Technologies), European Inventor Award winners 2022