Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory23
-

Only 270 Million Square Kilometers to Go: The R/V Marcus G. Langseth Helps Map the World’s Oceans
For the first time in almost nine years, the R/V Marcus G. Langseth is back in New York City, stationed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard for some much-needed TLC. State of the Planet got a tour of this impressive seismic vessel, learning how it can help researchers forecast earthquakes and save lives in the process.
-

The Measure of a Man: Jerome M. Paros ’63GSAS’ Life of Invention and Philanthropy
Jerry Paros’ inventions have improved the measurements of geophysical phenomena such as tsunamis, and enhance our ability to understand the complex earth, air and ocean processes that produce climate change.
-

Study Challenges Popular Idea That Easter Islanders Committed ‘Ecocide’
A popular trope says settlers overtaxed an isolated Pacific island, wrecked the environment and suffered a population collapse. A new study claims the opposite.
-

Here Comes the Sun—and the Extreme Heat
Learn more about extreme heat on State of the Planet, and check out Columbia Climate School’s workshop on extreme heat, at the Forum July 10-12th.
-

Finding an Undocumented Earthquake That Moved a River
Researchers offer a behind-the-scenes look at their recent discovery of an earthquake that shifted the course of the Ganges.
-

An Earthquake Changed the Course of the Ganges. Could It Happen Again?
2,500 years ago, an earthquake changed the course of the mighty Ganges River, a new study shows. The region remains vulnerable to a similar event now.
-

Columbia Energy Exchange Podcast: What to Make of Extreme Weather Predictions
Why are extreme weather events worsening? How is climate change contributing to this development? And what measures are being taken to adapt to this new reality?
-

Cascadia Subduction Zone, One of Earth’s Top Hazards, Comes Into Sharper Focus
Where tectonic plates collide off the coasts of the western United States and Canada, giant earthquakes and tsunamis occur. The last one was 324 years ago. When will be the next?
-

How Much Carbon Can the Ocean Hold? Lamont Researchers Aim To Find Out
Galen McKinley and her research group are quantifying how much carbon the ocean removes from the atmosphere—and how much it fluctuates—to better understand climate change.

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
