State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

climate treaties

  • Climate Change and the Complexity of Science

    Climate Change and the Complexity of Science

    The diplomatic debate about phasing out HFCs has been underway for seven years, but the technology of refrigerant coolants appears to have finally caught up with the need for replacement technology. Once replacement technology is available, diplomacy becomes possible.

  • Playing for the Planet

    Playing for the Planet

    Scott Barrett, the Lenfest-Earth Institute Professor of Natural Resource Economics and an expert in complex international negotiations, teaches game theory in his Global Collective Action class. Using a simple card game, Barrett helps his students understand the consequences of decision making in complex negotiations, like those involved in climate treaties, where each country’s actions depend…

Collage of Turkiye beach scene and Columbia University Campus with text: UN Climate Change Conference COP31, Antalya, Turkiye, Nov 9-20, 2026

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

  • Climate Change and the Complexity of Science

    Climate Change and the Complexity of Science

    The diplomatic debate about phasing out HFCs has been underway for seven years, but the technology of refrigerant coolants appears to have finally caught up with the need for replacement technology. Once replacement technology is available, diplomacy becomes possible.

  • Playing for the Planet

    Playing for the Planet

    Scott Barrett, the Lenfest-Earth Institute Professor of Natural Resource Economics and an expert in complex international negotiations, teaches game theory in his Global Collective Action class. Using a simple card game, Barrett helps his students understand the consequences of decision making in complex negotiations, like those involved in climate treaties, where each country’s actions depend…