The transition towards a green economy and its implications for quality infrastructure

The transition towards a green economy has become an urgent need. A pre-condition for the effective development and diffusion of green technologies, as well as for increasing competitiveness, is the presence of well-functioning national quality infrastructure systems, comprising standards, conformity assessment (that is, inspection, testing and certification), metrology and accreditation. Building up relevant quality infrastructure capabilities is, therefore, decisive for effectively using, adapting and innovating technologies. This study examines the nexus between green technologies and quality infrastructure in developing countries. Using a mix of research methods, we explore a) which green technologies are diffusing and at what pace in developing countries, and (b) what quality infrastructure investments are needed to support, and benefit from, the transition towards a green economy.