Ecology
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The Earth Is Getting Drier
Desertification is occurring in many parts of the world, including the western U.S., Brazil, most of Europe, Asia and central Africa. Is it too late to reverse it?
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In Morningside Park, a Restored Waterfall, a Renewed Pond, and a Blueprint for Climate-Resilient Public Space
Leaders from Columbia and NYC gathered in Morningside Park to celebrate a partnership to clear the park’s pond of toxic algal blooms, repair broken water pumps, and restore its iconic waterfall.
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Reviving Nature in the City: Lessons From Urban Green Space Restoration
MPA-ESP students took field trips to Pelham Bay Park and Shirley Chisholm State Park to learn more about the importance of preserving urban green spaces.
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Urban Ecology in Action: Field Lessons From Randall’s Island to Bronx Park East
On a field trip to Randall’s Island, River Park and Bronx Park East, MPA-ESP students saw first-hand the complex balance needed to maintain and restore natural environments within a dynamic urban setting.
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Combating Microplastics With AI Real-Time Monitoring
Columbia Climate School and Columbia Engineering win a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to develop AI for sustainable waterways and ocean health.
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New 400-Year Record Shows Great Barrier Reef Faces Catastrophic Damage
The six hottest years faced by the world’s largest reef system have occurred since 2004, with corresponding mass bleaching events.
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Student Spotlight: Prioritizing Environmental Justice and Urban Green Space
Aditya Mistry has pursued environmentalism through many different lenses. He brings his varied real-world experiences to the MPA-ESP program.
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Researchers Head to New York City Parks to Gather Data on Tick Exposure
Columbia researchers are conducting a major survey to measure the presence of urban ticks and how humans respond to them.

The first Earth Day in 1970 ignited a movement to stop polluting our planet. This Earth Month, join us in our commitment to realizing a just and sustainable future for our planet. Visit our Earth Day website for ideas, resources, and inspiration.