Sir Andrew Steer is one of the world’s foremost climate experts and a leader who has helped shape the global response to the climate crisis at its most consequential moments. Over a career spanning academia, international development, and global policy leadership, he has worked to move climate change from the margins of public debate to the center of economic decision-making—demonstrating that sustainability, equity, and prosperity must advance together.
Sir Andrew currently serves as Professor of Practice in Environmental Economics at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he is also Chair of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment. He also holds an appointment as Distinguished Research Professor of the Practice in Environment and Economics at Georgetown University’s Institute for Environment and Sustainability. Across these roles, he has been instrumental in advancing interdisciplinary research that connects climate science, economics, public policy, and social justice—an approach that closely mirrors the intellectual ambitions of Clark’s new School of Climate, Environment, and Society.
Prior to joining LSE, Sir Andrew served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the World Resources Institute, one of the world’s leading environmental research and policy organizations, and as the inaugural President and CEO of the $10 billion Bezos Earth Fund, where he led large-scale strategic investments in sustainability, biodiversity, and decarbonization. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles at the World Bank, including Special Envoy for Climate Change, working closely with governments and multilateral institutions to integrate climate considerations into global economic development strategies.
Sir Andrew has advised heads of state, international organizations, and philanthropic foundations, and has long been a powerful advocate for translating rigorous academic research into practical solutions at scale. In 2024, Forbes named him one of the world’s 50 most impactful climate leaders, and he was knighted in the United Kingdom for his contributions to international development, sustainability, and climate action. His career exemplifies a form of leadership Clark deeply values: intellectually grounded, globally engaged, and animated by a commitment to translating ideas into action.
Lou Leonard, the D.J.A. Spencer Dean of the School of Climate, Environment, and Society will present Sir Andrew Steer for the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.