Dr. Frederic Samama

Columbia University and Sciences Po
New York, USA

Abstract Title: The Enigma of Climate Inaction: Understanding the Cognitive and Institutional Roots of Our Collective Paralysis

Biography:

Frédéric Samama, PhD in Economics and MPhil in Philosophy, is a pioneer of green finance. He created the first mainstream low-carbon equity indices and launched what was then the world’s largest green bond fund to finance sustainable infrastructure in emerging markets. He co-initiated the first coalition of investors committed to climate action, representing the financial sector at COP21. He co-edited Sovereign Wealth Funds and Long-Term Investing with Patrick Bolton and Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz and has testified before the U.S. Senate on climate finance. His latest book, The Enigma of Climate Inaction (Routledge, 2026), features endorsements from Philippe Aghion (2025 Nobel Prize in Economics), Pascal Canfin, Hélène Rey, Lord Stern, and Laurence Tubiana. He teaches at Columbia University and Sciences Po.

Research Interest:

Frederic Samama’s research interests lie at the forefront of green finance, sustainable investment, and climate-aligned economic policy. His work focuses on designing financial mechanisms that accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy, including innovative climate-smart indices, green bonds, and long-term investment frameworks. He is particularly interested in the intersection of financial markets and climate action, exploring how investor behavior, public policy, and economic incentives can drive systemic decarbonization. His research also examines sovereign wealth fund strategies, climate-related risk management, and the mobilization of capital for sustainable infrastructure, especially in emerging markets. Through his academic work and policy engagement, he seeks to advance practical solutions that address climate inaction and strengthen global climate resilience.