Professor Ian Bateman, now elected to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences

University of Exeter Business School’s Professor Ian Bateman elected to US National Academy of Sciences

The National Academy of Sciences has elected Exeter's Professor Ian Bateman a life-time International Member for his distinguished achievements in original research.

Professor Bateman, Professor of Environmental Economics at the University of Exeter Business School, is among a select group of just 30 newly elected international members worldwide. 

The honour reflects the real-world impact of Professor Bateman’s pioneering research and its influence on governments, policy-makers and the academic community – both here in the UK and internationally.

 “I feel very honoured by this recognition and would like to thank my wonderful colleagues here at Exeter with whom this research was undertaken. I’m also very grateful to the School and University as the work underpinning this award reflects its support,” said Professor Bateman.

“Throughout my research runs the idea that investing in the natural environment is also an investment in economies and human wellbeing.

“It is my hope that membership of the National Academy of Sciences will provide a platform for these ideas so that they can influence a wider range of policy and decision-makers around the world.”

Professor Bateman has written more than 130 peer-reviewed journal papers, a similar number of book chapters and written or edited over a dozen books.

Some of Professor Bateman’s recent research success includes pioneering a new measure of economic growth that takes into account the impact of economic activity on the natural environment.

Gross Economic Product (GEP) is designed to complement GDP, and has already been approved by the United Nations for use around the world.

In his work as a member of the UK Natural Capital Committee, Professor Bateman has advised the government on agricultural and environmental policy, and last year unveiled a new decision-making framework to make it easier for governments to consider the natural environment when making policy.

Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice Chancellor of the University of Exeter, said: “This award for Ian is so very well deserved. The unprecedented challenges that face the environment, economy and society demand truly innovative solutions, and as a university we are incredibly proud of Ian’s achievements, which really have left their mark on the shape of environmental policy – and look set to continue to do so for years to come.”

Professor David Bruce Allen, Dean of the University of Exeter Business School, said: “We would like to offer Ian our congratulations on what is a truly well-deserved honour.

“Becoming a member of the National Academy of Sciences is fitting recognition of his work, which offers bold and practical solutions to some of the most pressing environmental challenges we face today.”

The National Academy of Sciences recognises achievement in science and provides policy advice to the federal government and other organisations. It was established under a congressional charter signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1863.

Its President, Marcia McNutt, said: “I am pleased to welcome all of our new members, and I look forward to engaging with them in the work of the National Academies.”

Professor Bateman is Co-director of the Business School’s Land, Environment and Economics Policy (LEEP) Institute, as well as Director of SWEEP (the South West Partnership for Environment and Economic Prosperity), a member of Exeter’s Global Systems Institute and the Economics Department.

He has been an adviser or consultant to the likes of H.M. Treasury, Defra, the Department for Transport, the Department of Health, NICE, OECD and numerous other bodies.

Professor Bateman is also a Fellow of the British Academy and in 2013 received an OBE for his contribution to environmental policy.

Date: 29 April 2021