Thomas Sterner

Thomas Sterner is a Professor of Environmental Economics at the University of Gothenburg, affiliated with the School of Business, Economics and Law and the Department of Economics with Statistics. He holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Gothenburg (1986) and has held academic positions since 1986, including Senior Lecturer (1990–95), Associate Professor (Docent), and his current Professorship since 1995.

His research focuses on environmental policy instruments, climate policy design, resource management in developing countries, discounting theory, and fisheries economics. He has supervised over 38 PhD students and contributed to global initiatives like the Environment for Development (EfD) network. Notable awards include the French Légion d’Honneur (2020), EAERE Fellow (2019), and the Myrdal Prize (2008). He has served on numerous international scientific boards, including the IPCC as a Coordinating Lead Author for AR5.

Key publications include works on carbon pricing, climate policy effectiveness, and the social cost of methane. His work bridges economics with interdisciplinary collaboration in natural sciences and policy-making. He is also active in consultancy and policy advising, contributing to climate-related legal cases and international organizations like the World Bank.