Nicholas Stern, Baron Stern of Brentford, English economist and academic

Nicholas Herbert Stern, officially known as Baron Stern of Brentford, born on April 22, 1946, is a towering figure in British economics, finance, and academia. His distinguished career spans numerous influential roles, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader, particularly in the realm of climate change economics and governance.

A Distinguished Career in Economics and Academia

Lord Stern is currently the IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government at the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE), a role that places him at the forefront of policy-oriented economic research. Concurrently, he serves as the Chair of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, also at the LSE. This institute is a global leader in researching the economics and social implications of climate change, an area where Lord Stern has made seminal contributions, most notably through the groundbreaking "Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change." His work here has profoundly shaped international understanding and policy approaches to environmental sustainability.

His international academic standing is further highlighted by his appointment as a 2010 Professor of Collège de France. This esteemed institution in Paris recognizes and invites leading scholars from across disciplines to deliver a series of lectures, underscoring his intellectual influence on a global stage.

Leadership and National Recognition

Beyond his current academic appointments, Lord Stern has also demonstrated significant leadership within the academic community. He served with distinction as President of the British Academy, the United Kingdom's national academy for the humanities and social sciences, from 2013 to 2017. This role placed him at the helm of an institution dedicated to promoting excellence in these vital fields.

His outstanding contributions to science and public policy were further recognized in 2014 when he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, one of the oldest and most respected scientific academies in the world, an honour reserved for the most eminent scientists, engineers, and technologists. Furthermore, his creation as Baron Stern of Brentford, a life peerage, signifies national recognition for his profound impact on public discourse and policy in the United Kingdom.

FAQs about Lord Nicholas Stern

Who is Lord Nicholas Stern?

Lord Nicholas Stern is a prominent British economist, banker, and academic, widely recognized for his work on the economics of climate change.

What are his main current positions?

He is the IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government, and Chair of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, both at the London School of Economics (LSE).

What is he most famous for?

Lord Stern is particularly renowned for the "Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change," a highly influential report that assessed the economic impacts of climate change and the costs of inaction versus early intervention.

Has he held other significant leadership roles?

Yes, he served as President of the British Academy from 2013 to 2017 and was appointed a 2010 Professor of Collège de France.

What is the significance of "Baron Stern of Brentford"?

This title refers to his life peerage, making him a member of the House of Lords and acknowledging his significant contributions to public life in the United Kingdom.