State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

consumption

  • Environmental Sustainability and Consumption

    Environmental Sustainability and Consumption

    The best way to achieve environmental sustainability is to develop a circular economy with services and products that have the least possible impact on the environment. Attacking consumption is futile and a waste of effort.

  • How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change

    How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change

    Consumerism causes a large chunk of our carbon emissions. Here are a few ideas for healthier habits during the holidays and beyond.

  • Climate Change and Economic Consumption

    Climate Change and Economic Consumption

    Climate change requires nothing less than transforming the nature of economic production and consumption: Not to consume less, but to consume without destroying the planet that sustains us.

  • The Sharing Economy is Transforming Sustainability

    The Sharing Economy is Transforming Sustainability

    During a talk on Wednesday, panelists discussed the benefits and challenges of this emerging industry.

Colorful icons representing nature, sustainable living, and renewable energy with text "Earth Day 2026"

The first Earth Day in 1970 ignited a movement to stop polluting our planet. Today, our scientists and experts are tackling the most pressing challenges to achieve real-world impact. This Earth Day, 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.

  • Environmental Sustainability and Consumption

    Environmental Sustainability and Consumption

    The best way to achieve environmental sustainability is to develop a circular economy with services and products that have the least possible impact on the environment. Attacking consumption is futile and a waste of effort.

  • How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change

    How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change

    Consumerism causes a large chunk of our carbon emissions. Here are a few ideas for healthier habits during the holidays and beyond.

  • Climate Change and Economic Consumption

    Climate Change and Economic Consumption

    Climate change requires nothing less than transforming the nature of economic production and consumption: Not to consume less, but to consume without destroying the planet that sustains us.

  • The Sharing Economy is Transforming Sustainability

    The Sharing Economy is Transforming Sustainability

    During a talk on Wednesday, panelists discussed the benefits and challenges of this emerging industry.