explainers3
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You Asked: Should I Buy Biodegradable Materials If My Trash Just Goes to a Landfill?
Our expert says: It’s better than adding another piece of plastic to the problem.
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You Asked: When Will Polar Bears Go Extinct?
A recent study provides a rough timeline, but there’s still time to save them if we cut our carbon emissions.
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You Asked: What’s the Best Way To Talk About Climate Change?
Columbia scientists, journalists, and content creators answer some of the most frequently asked questions about climate communication.
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How Exactly Does Carbon Dioxide Cause Global Warming?
CO2 molecules make up only a small percentage of the atmosphere, but their impact on our climate is huge. The reason comes down to physics and chemistry.
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You Asked: Why Is it So Hard to Predict Volcanic Eruptions?
Volcanologist Einat Lev tackles reader questions and explains how more monitoring of volcanoes could save lives.
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You Asked: What Can We Do About Climate Tipping Points?
Climate scientist Radley Horton tackles questions about climate tipping points, and how we can tip the scales in a safer direction.
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You Asked: If the Science is Clear, Why Do We Need More Climate Research?
Climate scientist Gisela Winckler explains the link between climate science and solutions, and shares some of her research adventures.
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You Asked: How Does Carbon Dioxide Get So High Up Into the Atmosphere?
If CO2 is heavier than oxygen, why doesn’t it stay near the ground? The short answer: Earth’s atmosphere isn’t like a sealed bottle of wine.
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Lead Fallout From Notre Dame Fire Was Likely Overlooked
New study estimates that a ton of lead dust may have been deposited in parks, homes, and schools near the cathedral.

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.
