Cutting-edge identification of carbon negative technology using patent analysis

Identifying cutting-edge technologies in the field of carbon negative technology is crucial for research and development (R&D) institutions and enterprises to grasp emerging technological trends, and guide policymakers in designing effective innovation policies. Although previous studies have explored the current status and cutting-edge technologies for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), they lack a comprehensive overview of carbon negative technology, fail to consider the characteristics of cutting-edge technologies, and cannot effectively identify cutting-edge technologies in the field of carbon negative technology. Therefore, in this study, we construct a research framework for identifying cutting-edge technologies in the field of carbon negative technology based on the characteristics of cutting-edge technologies from a technological system perspective. In the research framework, we consider that cutting-edge technologies should encompass three characteristics: emergence, certainty, and tentative, and we develop a detailed process for identifying cutting-edge technologies in the field of carbon negative technology using patent analysis. The patent analysis results show that the research framework is feasible and effective, resulting in the identification of six cutting-edge technologies in carbon capture, five in carbon transportation, eight in carbon utilization, four in carbon storage, and five in carbon sink. These findings could provide decision-making references for decision makers on carbon negative technology, which will in turn help promote the realization of carbon neutrality goals and contribute to the sustainable development of society.