R&D Reports

ESRIF (European Security Research and Innovation Forum), tasks itself to define the European Research and Innovation needs for the mid- to long term, following the ‘public – private dialogue’ as a model.

ESRIF looked at scenarios with a 2030 time horizon to frame. These scenarios embraced a range of risks, from natural to man-made incidents; Capabilities and Capacities need to be mobilised to deliver equipment and services to deal with these risks and we need to obtain them from those that can provide these best. Being prepared is key to minimising the impact.

The 2009 EU Industrial R&D Investment Scoreboard, released in November 2009, presents information on 2000 companies from around the world reporting major investments in R&D.

The set of companies it covers comprises the top 1000 R&D investors whose registered offices are in the EU and the top 1000 registered elsewhere.

European Patent Office is launching a survey on how the patent information is used by users.

The study will be conducted in all the contracting states of the European Patent Organization and will also include reference data from the United States.

According to a similar study carried out in 2002-2003, 70% of European industry did not use patent information. The results of this new survey will indicate whether that percentage has decreased. It will also help establish ways to improve the accessibility and comprehensibility of patent information.

The 2010 Spring European Council is expected to take a decision on a possible new European strategy to follow the Lisbon Strategy for growth and jobs, launched in 2000 and coming to an end in 2010. To contribute to the preparatory debate, the Committee of the Regions has decided to adopt an Own Initiative Opinion at its Plenary Session of December 2009.