Emerging insights on the dynamic drivers of international low-carbon technology transfer

International low-carbon technology (LCT) transfer has emerged as a key focus of research and policy for global climate change mitigation efforts. While the benefits of international LCT transfer are widely understood, the processes associated with international LCT transfer are more complicated than is portrayed in the often-polarized discussions around LCT transfer. In order to effectively incentivize innovation and diffusion of LCTs globally, it is important to synthesize the emerging integrated concept of LCT transfer with due consideration to the dynamics of the processes underpinning it. A robust view of international LCT transfer requires a holistic understanding of the various economic, political, institutional, and legal factors that impact widespread transfer of LCTs. Focusing on these factors, the primary objective of this paper is to place the recent empirical literature in LCT transfer within the framework of key theoretical and conceptual ideas in the broader innovation and technology transfer literature. We organize our synthesis of this literature under three overarching themes: intellectual property rights; recipient country characteristics; and the role of international partnerships. By focusing on the dynamics of LCT transfer, this paper provides structured insights from the existing body of work, while also outlining fruitful directions to take in future research.