Daikin named Clarivate Top 100 Global Innovator for 11th time

Brussels, 22 January 2026 – Daikin has been selected among the Top 100 Global Innovators 2026 by global information services provider Clarivate Plc (London, UK). This marks the 11th time Clarivate has honoured Daikin since 2012, based on an extensive patent data analysis of companies and research institutions worldwide.

Access to patents for refrigerants with low global warming potential

As a global leader in HVAC-R technologies, Daikin allows the use of select patents by other companies to help reduce greenhouse gases across the entire industry. Since December 2019, Daikin has joined forces with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)*, the clearinghouse arm of the UN agency specialized in intellectual property. They’re working together to lower the environmental impact of refrigerants around the world and promote the widespread use of air conditioners that use R-32, a refrigerant with a low global warming potential. WIPO GREEN is the organisation’s online platform that enables the sharing and mutual utilisation of sustainable technologies around the world. Daikin has registered a total of 419 patents related to R-32 air conditioners on WIPO GREEN.

Partnering with industry and academia

Working with startups, industry, government, and academia, Daikin is creating new intellectual property by building incentive-driven models that support innovation on all sides. These efforts have enabled mutually beneficial relationships with multiple universities and research institutes. The number of patent applications based on active technological development through external collaborations has increased significantly both in Japan and internationally.

Going forward, Daikin will continue to protect and leverage intellectual property that drives international business growth, while contributing to a more sustainable society.

“Daikin has been working to strengthen research and development on a global scale to achieve the growth strategy themes that it set out in its strategic management plan Fusion 25. These include ‘Challenge to achieve carbon neutrality,’ ‘Promotion of Solutions business connected with customers,’ and ‘Creating value with air,’” explains Takeo Abe, General Manager, Intellectual Property Department of Daikin Industries, Ltd. “In addition to acquiring IP intellectual property rights and avoiding IP infringement with other companies, Daikin will continue to promote IP activities that contribute to its business by focusing on creating Daikin Corporate News intellectual property through industry-industry and industry-academia collaborations and building relationships through free access to patents.”

*The United Nations’ World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) wants to accelerate the adoption of solutions to address environmental issues. As part of its mission, it operates WIPO GREEN, an interactive marketplace that connects technology and service providers with those seeking innovative solutions. www3.wipo.int/wipogreen/en/aboutus