State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

Michela Biasutti

  • Study of Extreme Indian Rainfall Upends Conventional Wisdom

    Study of Extreme Indian Rainfall Upends Conventional Wisdom

    While El Niño often brings drought conditions to India, a new paper shows that it also increases the likelihood of devastating downpours in some of the country’s most heavily populated regions.

  • The Earth Is Getting Drier

    The Earth Is Getting Drier

    Desertification is occurring in many parts of the world, including the western U.S., Brazil, most of Europe, Asia and central Africa. Is it too late to reverse it?

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

  • Study of Extreme Indian Rainfall Upends Conventional Wisdom

    Study of Extreme Indian Rainfall Upends Conventional Wisdom

    While El Niño often brings drought conditions to India, a new paper shows that it also increases the likelihood of devastating downpours in some of the country’s most heavily populated regions.

  • The Earth Is Getting Drier

    The Earth Is Getting Drier

    Desertification is occurring in many parts of the world, including the western U.S., Brazil, most of Europe, Asia and central Africa. Is it too late to reverse it?