The Growth Story of the 21st Century: the economics and opportunity of climate action

Nicholas Stern (Grantham Research Institute and LSE)

Wednesday 10 December 2025 17:00 - 18:30

Many of our seminars and public events this year will continue as in person or as hybrid (online and in person) events. Please check our website listings and Twitter feed @STICERD_LSE for updates.

Unless otherwise specified, in-person seminars are open to the public. Please ensure you have informed the event contact as early as possible.

Those unable to join the seminars in-person are welcome to participate via zoom if the event is hybrid.

About this event

The world stands at a crossroads. The next decade will determine whether we avoid climate, biodiversity, and economic catastrophe – or unlock a new era of sustainable, resilient, and inclusive growth.

The Growth Story of the 21st Century challenges the outdated idea that we must choose between climate action and development. Instead, it presents a compelling case for a transformation that delivers both prosperity and a healthier planet.

Drawing on economics, finance, policy, politics, and behavioural science, Nicholas Stern explores why this transformation is essential, what it entails, and how we can achieve it. He revisits the insights of the Stern Review two decades on and sets out a new research agenda for economics and the social sciences.

This is a story of optimism – about how rapid technological advances, including digitisation and AI, can drive change at scale. But it does not shy away from the immense challenges ahead. With clear and practical strategies for national and international action, this book is a call to leaders, businesses, and individuals alike: the future is in our hands, and delay is the riskiest option of all.

You can access Nick Stern's late book 'The Growth Story of the 21st Century: The Economics and opportunity of climate action', published by LSE Press in November 2025, here.

This event is organised by the LSE Programme on Cohesive Capitalism

Some events will be invitation only, while others will be public events. Please visit the link for each event, to view details of how to attend.

For further information please contact Lubala Chibwe by email: l.chibwe@lse.ac.uk.