State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

disturbance ecology

  • How Ice Scouring in the Antarctic Disrupts Ecosystems

    How Ice Scouring in the Antarctic Disrupts Ecosystems

    A recent study sheds light on how different types of species are affected by calving icebergs that tear apart the seafloor.

  • Climate Change and the Re-Greening of Puerto Rico

    Climate Change and the Re-Greening of Puerto Rico

    Ecologist Maria Uriarte investigates the effects of Hurricane Maria on the forests of Puerto Rico, and how long-term climate change may affect them.

  • Fire on the Mountain, Fire in the ‘Burbs

    Fire on the Mountain, Fire in the ‘Burbs

    I walked out of the house Thursday morning when my nose detected it – a forest fire! Having worked for two years in the piney woods of southwest Georgia, I had become accustomed to and, actually, come to love forest fires. That classic line kept coming into my mind, “the scent of fire in the…

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.

  • How Ice Scouring in the Antarctic Disrupts Ecosystems

    How Ice Scouring in the Antarctic Disrupts Ecosystems

    A recent study sheds light on how different types of species are affected by calving icebergs that tear apart the seafloor.

  • Climate Change and the Re-Greening of Puerto Rico

    Climate Change and the Re-Greening of Puerto Rico

    Ecologist Maria Uriarte investigates the effects of Hurricane Maria on the forests of Puerto Rico, and how long-term climate change may affect them.

  • Fire on the Mountain, Fire in the ‘Burbs

    Fire on the Mountain, Fire in the ‘Burbs

    I walked out of the house Thursday morning when my nose detected it – a forest fire! Having worked for two years in the piney woods of southwest Georgia, I had become accustomed to and, actually, come to love forest fires. That classic line kept coming into my mind, “the scent of fire in the…