MA in Climate and Society Archives - State of the Planet

madeleine traynor and shangtong li

Climate and Society Alumni Work Together to Build Coastal Resilience

Working in the same think tank but in different roles, two alumni show how the Climate and Society program prepares students for a variety of career paths.

by |March 27, 2023
A smiling girl gives the thumbs-up next to a microphone.

Climate and Society Alumna Suzie Hicks Teaches Climate Science to Kids of All Ages

Suzie Hicks, “The Climate Chick,” talks about how she is using television and film to inspire young learners to form healthy relationships with environmental science and help improve the world around them.

by |February 23, 2023
kimono made with bioearth fabric, seen from multiple angles and in motion

Let Them Wear Dirt: Penmai Chongtoua Turns Soil Into Textiles

An artist and alumna of the Climate and Society program, Chongtoua is exploring a variety of ways to wear earth on our bodies. Her work seeks to shape how we view our relationship with the planet.

by |February 14, 2023
A view of the New York City skyline from Governors Island

How Governors Island Could Become a Beacon for Climate Solutions

A new climate research center on Governors Island will be critical in designing a more resilient city — and the Columbia Climate School has an opportunity to be at the helm.

by Joshua Nodiff |December 28, 2022

2023 Climate Resolutions: How Will You Make a Difference Next Year?

Our elected officials, community leaders, experts, and students discuss their 2023 climate resolutions. What will yours be?

by |December 27, 2022
researchers sitting on ice with equipment

Year in Review: Our Top Stories of 2022

A list of some of our most popular articles and videos, plus some of our favorites that you shouldn’t miss.

by |December 22, 2022

2022 Climate News You Should Know

Climate School experts weigh in on the past year’s most noteworthy events and developments within their fields.

by Elise Gout |December 19, 2022
satellite image of rikers island

A Renewable Future for Formerly Incarcerated New Yorkers

Rikers Island, the world’s largest penal colony, could become a solar farm. While this is a significant step toward a healthier future, certain considerations must be taken into account to ensure the transition is just and equitable.

by Joshua Nodiff |December 15, 2022
artificial wetland inside a building

With Historic Droughts on the Rise, We Must Reclaim Our Water

Droughts are becoming much more severe and widespread, disrupting industry and sustenance around the world. To combat water scarcity, neighborhoods must reconsider the design of their wastewater systems.

by Joshua Nodiff |December 14, 2022
compilation of headshots

Columbia Climate School Hosts 7th Annual Sustainability Careers Reception

Students and professionals met to discuss the challenges and real-world applications of sustainability and climate.

by Kayley Jewel Beard, Annie Delgadillo, and Arushi Singh |December 9, 2022