State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

coal plants

  • Japan Retreats to Coal and Energy Incoherence Reigns Supreme

    Japan Retreats to Coal and Energy Incoherence Reigns Supreme

    Our climate challenged planet desperately needs a 21st century, low-polluting, decarbonized energy system.

  • The Greening of China

    The Greening of China

    China became the world’s largest carbon polluter in 2006, surpassing the U.S. But it is also rapidly going green through cutting coal use, investing heavily in renewable energy and launching the world’s largest carbon trading system.

  • What’s the Real Story With Clean Coal?

    What’s the Real Story With Clean Coal?

    The Obama administration will propose new rules to limit carbon emissions from coal-fired power plants. But is “clean coal” technology up to the job?

Banner with images representing environmental issues and text "You Asked: Our Scientists and Experts Answer Your Burning Questions."

You Asked invites you to share your most pressing questions about climate, science, and sustainability. Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and Columbia Climate School experts will respond with clear, evidence-based answers. Pose your questions and story ideas!

  • Japan Retreats to Coal and Energy Incoherence Reigns Supreme

    Japan Retreats to Coal and Energy Incoherence Reigns Supreme

    Our climate challenged planet desperately needs a 21st century, low-polluting, decarbonized energy system.

  • The Greening of China

    The Greening of China

    China became the world’s largest carbon polluter in 2006, surpassing the U.S. But it is also rapidly going green through cutting coal use, investing heavily in renewable energy and launching the world’s largest carbon trading system.

  • What’s the Real Story With Clean Coal?

    What’s the Real Story With Clean Coal?

    The Obama administration will propose new rules to limit carbon emissions from coal-fired power plants. But is “clean coal” technology up to the job?