Green Innovation Commercialization In Higher Education Institutions: Assessment Of Policies, Barriers, And Strategies

Abstract

Green innovation commercialization has become an essential component of sustainable development, particularly within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), which function as major centers for research, technological advancement, and environmental problem-solving. Despite increasing emphasis on sustainability and intellectual property generation, many green technologies developed in universities fail to reach the commercialization stage due to legal, institutional, financial, and infrastructural barriers. This study examines the legal and policy framework governing green innovation commercialization in HEIs, with a comparative focus on Andhra Pradesh (India) and Nepal. The research adopts a mixed-method approach integrating doctrinal legal analysis, quantitative survey analysis, and qualitative thematic interpretation. Data were collected from academicians, patent holders, and experts through questionnaires and interviews, alongside an analysis of patents, commercialization trends, institutional policies, and government initiatives. The findings reveal that Andhra Pradesh possesses a comparatively stronger innovation ecosystem, supported by R&D cells, IP offices, and state policies such as the Andhra Pradesh Innovation & Startup Policy and Integrated Clean Energy Policy. However, despite higher patent filing rates, commercialization outcomes remain extremely low, indicating a significant gap between research generation and market adoption. Nepal, in contrast, faces foundational challenges including weak legal frameworks, limited institutional infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, and minimal patenting activity. Common barriers identified across both regions include insufficient funding, inadequate industry collaboration, lack of commercialization support mechanisms, and limited legal awareness regarding intellectual property rights. The study concludes that effective commercialization of green innovation requires integrated legal reforms, strengthened technology transfer mechanisms, institutional capacity building, financial incentives, and stronger academia–industry collaboration. The research offers evidence-based policy recommendations to enhance sustainable innovation ecosystems and promote the societal and economic impact of university-generated green technologies.