Water
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Asia’s Glaciers Have Become a Diplomatic Talking Point
As glaciers continue to shrink, important questions around glacier diplomacy and water supply played out among Central Asian nations during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan.
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Microplastics Are Chemically Active, and Could Cause Biological Harm
A new study found that when microplastics contact water, their surfaces can become chemically reactive. This could be how they get us sick.
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New Report: Ocean Carbon Removal Shows Promise, But Big Questions Remain
Marine carbon dioxide removal could support climate action but faces major scientific, technical and governance challenges, according to a National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report.
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A New Tool for Matching Water Solutions to Community Needs
Sustainable development alum Dylan Dettloff used his Columbia Climate School Collaborative Research Grant to develop a Python-based decision tool to help rural and water-scarce communities identify the most suitable desalination technologies.
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From Marie Tharp to Seabed 2030: Marine Geophysicist Vicki Ferrini on Mapping the Ocean Floor
In honor of Tharp’s birthday, Ferrini discusses the geologist’s pioneering work and how it paved the way for her own collaborative efforts to map the ocean floor.
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Life Aboard the Langseth: A Q&A With Chief Science Officer Cody Bahlau
On Columbia’s global research vessel, the R/V Marcus G. Langseth, Bahlau serves as the key link between scientists, crewmembers and operations on shore.
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You Asked: What Exactly Is a ‘Super’ El Niño?
Columbia Climate School experts explain what a strong El Niño could mean for the planet this year.
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World Oceans Day Reimagines Our Relationship With the Water Around Us
In honor of this annual U.N. event, we are highlighting our coverage of ocean research and education initiatives at the Columbia Climate School and Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
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Join Us on May 30 to Celebrate Hudson River World Fish Migration Day
Hosted by scientists and educators at multiple locations along the lower Hudson River Estuary, this event celebrates the vital role played by estuaries in the life cycle of many ocean fish species.

COP31, the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, aims to advance dialogue, strengthen consensus, and accelerate climate action on a global scale. From November 9–20, 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye, heads of state, ministers, scientists, business leaders, and civil society will gather to advance efforts in emission targets, climate finance, and adaptation and resilience. Once again, our experts, students, and global thought leaders from Columbia Climate School and across Columbia University are contributing to key events, sharing insights, and helping shape the dialogue toward ambitious, science-based solutions. Learn More
