State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

fungi

  • Glacier Melt Leads to Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels Due to These Tiny Fungi

    Glacier Melt Leads to Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels Due to These Tiny Fungi

    New research links reduced glacier cover to higher rates of fungal decomposition of organic material. If these rates continue to rise, it could further disrupt the carbon cycle.

  • Nature’s Toxic Crusaders

    Nature’s Toxic Crusaders

    Can mushrooms help clean up oil spills? Can oysters filter sewage pollution? Industrial waste is being injected into the planet’s soil and water as a result of human activity. Pioneers in the field of conservation and sustainability are employing nature’s own biological task force to help clean up.

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!

  • Glacier Melt Leads to Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels Due to These Tiny Fungi

    Glacier Melt Leads to Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels Due to These Tiny Fungi

    New research links reduced glacier cover to higher rates of fungal decomposition of organic material. If these rates continue to rise, it could further disrupt the carbon cycle.

  • Nature’s Toxic Crusaders

    Nature’s Toxic Crusaders

    Can mushrooms help clean up oil spills? Can oysters filter sewage pollution? Industrial waste is being injected into the planet’s soil and water as a result of human activity. Pioneers in the field of conservation and sustainability are employing nature’s own biological task force to help clean up.