State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

direct air capture

  • Can Removing Carbon From the Atmosphere Save Us From Climate Catastrophe?

    Can Removing Carbon From the Atmosphere Save Us From Climate Catastrophe?

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says that limiting global warming to 1.5˚C will require removing CO2 from the atmosphere. How feasible is this?

  • 10 Reasons to Take Direct Air Capture Seriously

    10 Reasons to Take Direct Air Capture Seriously

    Though still requiring more research and development, direct air capture, a technology that extracts CO­2 from ambient air, offers reason for optimism. It is economically viable in several areas and can permit negative emissions to eventually stabilize atmospheric concentrations. While current support for the pioneers in this industry comes from private and philanthropic investment, here…

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

  • Can Removing Carbon From the Atmosphere Save Us From Climate Catastrophe?

    Can Removing Carbon From the Atmosphere Save Us From Climate Catastrophe?

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says that limiting global warming to 1.5˚C will require removing CO2 from the atmosphere. How feasible is this?

  • 10 Reasons to Take Direct Air Capture Seriously

    10 Reasons to Take Direct Air Capture Seriously

    Though still requiring more research and development, direct air capture, a technology that extracts CO­2 from ambient air, offers reason for optimism. It is economically viable in several areas and can permit negative emissions to eventually stabilize atmospheric concentrations. While current support for the pioneers in this industry comes from private and philanthropic investment, here…