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.

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

  • 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.