WIPO's Open Day

WIPO opened its doors to the Geneva public for its first Open Day on June 5 – which coincided with World Environment Day – offering a packed programme of activities for the curious, the adventurous and the fun-loving.

CATHY JEWELL, WIPO

The event – by all accounts a resounding success – was an opportunity for WIPO to showcase its activities and to explain to visiting members of the public – young and old – what intellectual property is all about and how it contributes to our daily lives and human progress.

On one of the sunniest days of the year, an estimated 3,500 visitors crossed WIPO’s threshold eager to find out more about the Organization and its activities, to explore the lobby and conference rooms and to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Geneva, its lake and the Alps from the 13th floor. A scaled model of WIPO’s new conference center on which work is due to begin in early 2011 was on display and visitors also had a birds’ eye view of WIPO’s new office building due to be completed later this year.

The programme offered something for everyone. Inventors of eco-friendly technologies were on hand to demonstrate their “green” technologies and explain why intellectual property (IP) was important for them, particularly in terms of reassuring and attracting investors to finance the commercialization process. These included a pioneering clean tech water making device by eolewater that extracts humidity from the air through a process of condensation, and which promises to make drinking water accessible to millions who do not have ready access to potable water. An integrated waterproof solar roofing panel by DuPont, which is quick and easy to install was also on display. The more adventurous had an opportunity to try out the Segway®, an alternative eco-friendly mode of transport on a dedicated circuit. In spite of a few near misses, there were no bumps or bruises! “What a thrill, it’s a brilliant and great fun way to get around!” exclaimed one happy traveler!

The more curious had an opportunity to visit a range of information stands covering all aspects of the Organization’s work. They were able to learn about the basic elements of IP– patents, trademarks, designs, geographical indications and copyright – and to acquaint themselves with WIPO’s role, mission and extensive activities. An enthusiastic and energetic group of staff volunteers, including WIPO’s Director General Francis Gurry, were on hand to answer questions and explain WIPO’s role.

Local Geneva wines, milk and juices, produced under the label Genève Région, Terre Avenir were a popular choice for many thirsty visitors! This, an initiative of the Office de Promotion des Produits agricoles de Genève (OPAGE), aims to re-align agriculture with its traditional role, namely producing basic products for local inhabitants. A range of traditional quality Swiss foods that have acquired the legal status of appellations of origin or geographical indication were also available for tasting thanks to the Swiss Office of Agriculture and Swiss Association of Appellations of Origin (AOC).

Those who wanted to escape the glare of the sun were treated to a series of films featuring artists and musicians who explained how copyright enables them to earn a living and the destructive impact of piracy on their livelihoods. The programme also featured a screening of Yann Arthus Bertrand’s high impact and thought-provoking film “Home” which challenges viewers to work together to create a cleaner, greener future.

WIPO’s green team, members of the WIPO Carbon Neutrality Project, joined up with other UN partners on the Place des Nations to explain what the Organization is doing to reduce its carbon footprint. Passersby were invited to contribute to two unique collective artworks by illustrating elements of their vision of an environmentally sustainable future which will be shortly on display at WIPO.

In keeping with World Environment Day, WIPO hosted a lively and insightful public debate on intellectual property (IP) and the environment. Moderated by Mr. Gurry, accomplished panelists from academia, industry and the non-governmental sector examined the link between the IP and green innovation and reflected on how the IP system can contribute to developing climate change solutions.

The day’s events were rounded off with a musical programme in the Organization’s gardens, featuring the rhythmic beats of South African group “Black Earth,” the evocative and colorful performances by Ecuadorean folk dancers, Nuestro Manantial (“Our Spring”), and the talented band of musicians, Siembra (“Sowing”).