State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

government regulation

  • Regulating Technological Complexity

    Regulating Technological Complexity

    It is in the public interest to regulate new and emerging technologies to reduce the harm they create. Broad policies can be set by law, but the detailed rules must be left to experts in administrative agencies.

  • Technology, Culture, Economics, and Politics

    Technology, Culture, Economics, and Politics

    Technological change has been the largest stimulator of rapid cultural change over the past two centuries and will continue to be the major cause of social, economic, and political change.

  • The Future of the Fossil Fuel Business

    The Future of the Fossil Fuel Business

    While fossil fuels are in decline, there is no reason that fossil fuel companies cannot adjust and play a part in the transition to an environmentally sustainable economy.

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

  • Regulating Technological Complexity

    Regulating Technological Complexity

    It is in the public interest to regulate new and emerging technologies to reduce the harm they create. Broad policies can be set by law, but the detailed rules must be left to experts in administrative agencies.

  • Technology, Culture, Economics, and Politics

    Technology, Culture, Economics, and Politics

    Technological change has been the largest stimulator of rapid cultural change over the past two centuries and will continue to be the major cause of social, economic, and political change.

  • The Future of the Fossil Fuel Business

    The Future of the Fossil Fuel Business

    While fossil fuels are in decline, there is no reason that fossil fuel companies cannot adjust and play a part in the transition to an environmentally sustainable economy.