polar ice
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Study of West Antarctica’s Deep Past Reinforces Vulnerability to Melting
The continent’s western ice sheet turns out to once have been much bigger than previously thought. This implies that the now smaller version could waste quickly.
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Scientists Track the Sudden Disappearance of an Antarctic Ice-Shelf Lake
A rarely seen phenomenon may not bode well for the future survival of the ice.
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Antarctic Ice Shelves Vulnerable to Sudden Meltwater-Driven Fracturing, Says Study
A new study says that many of the ice shelves ringing Antarctica could be vulnerable to quick destruction if rising temperatures drive melt water into the numerous fractures that currently penetrate their surfaces.
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It’s Raining on the Greenland Ice. In the Winter.
Rainy weather is becoming increasingly common over parts of the Greenland ice sheet, triggering sudden melting events that are eating at the ice and priming the surface for more widespread future melting, says a new study.
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Short-Term Ocean Temperature Shifts Are Affecting West Antarctic Ice, Says Study
Scientists have known for some time that ice shelves off West Antarctica are melting as deep, warm ocean waters eat at their undersides, but a new study shows that temperatures, and resultant melting, can vary far more than previously thought, within a time scale of a few years.
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Wonder Woman: Lamont Polar Pioneer Robin Bell
Lamont’s Robin Bell is living proof of the importance of encouraging young women to study STEM disciplines. Her breakthrough research, fueled by passionate intellectual curiosity, has been critical to understanding our planet.
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Glaciers, Ice Sheets, and More: A Primer on the Different Types of Polar Ice
Plus: Why they matter for 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
