
In Africa, Asia and Latin America, the development of the mining industry has often been accompanied by violence and community-led social protest. To halt these protests, young democratic institutions have, in various cases, turned to authoritarian dogmas. Researcher Dr. Triscritti illustrates how in Peru these practices are decreasing the chances of reaching durable and peaceful…

Prior to joining the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy program (MPA-ESP), current student Max Litt was working for the New York Restoration Project (NYRP), an environmental non-profit founded by actress Bette Midler to revitalize underserved parks and public spaces. Max’s experience on the operational side of environmental policy motivated him to enroll in the…

2012 is turning out to be an exceptional year in the eastern US. Starting out with what was essentially a #YearWithoutaWinter, followed by a heat wave in March, a hot summer, Macoun and Cortland apples coming in 2-3 weeks early, and the continuation of a severe drought in the Southern US that expanded into the Midwest…

Local food proponents often claim that food grown close to home helps prevent global warming because it requires less fossil fuels to transport, generating fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventionally produced food. But just how green is local food?

The Earth Institute at Columbia University hosted a two-day workshop that brought together practitioners, trainers, and academics to explore innovative approaches to teaching and training on natural resources management in fragile states and peacebuilding contexts. The workshop concluded with a clear statement: current academic and training programs do not provide a coherent methodology for students…
Each fall the Earth Institute offers a unique insight into the cutting-edge research of institute centers and units and the policy implications of that research in the Earth Institute Practicum. The practicum provides an opportunity to learn about issues in sustainable development, sustainability management and environmental science from faculty and researchers in these areas.

The Master of Public Administration in Environmental Science and Policy (MPA-ESP) program will be participating in a variety of upcoming recruitment fairs and information sessions across the United States in the coming months. If you would like to learn more about our program, please join us at these events, which are free of charge and…

Two acres of cracked earth. In northern Ethiopia, it can be a trap that keeps farmers tethered to it for generations. Or it can be a springboard to a better life for this and future generations. What impedes it from showing its springier qualities? You could argue the biggest pressure on the land comes from…
The Office of the Director of the Earth Institute is offering two internship opportunities: One is the Administrations, Communications, and Research Internship, and the other the Communications, Research, Writing and Event-Planning Internship. The deadline to apply is Sept. 14.