State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

population density

  • Density, Equity, and the History of Epidemics in New York City

    Density, Equity, and the History of Epidemics in New York City

    The city’s economic success depends on its density. But density also allows contagious diseases to spread. Looking at how the city has managed this conflict in the past could shed light on what the future holds.

  • Working with Facebook to Create Better Population Maps

    Working with Facebook to Create Better Population Maps

    Knowing how settlements are distributed across the landscape—e.g., in clusters, along roads or waterways, or scattered widely—has important implications for designing infrastructure, improving access, and promoting sustainability.

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

  • Density, Equity, and the History of Epidemics in New York City

    Density, Equity, and the History of Epidemics in New York City

    The city’s economic success depends on its density. But density also allows contagious diseases to spread. Looking at how the city has managed this conflict in the past could shed light on what the future holds.

  • Working with Facebook to Create Better Population Maps

    Working with Facebook to Create Better Population Maps

    Knowing how settlements are distributed across the landscape—e.g., in clusters, along roads or waterways, or scattered widely—has important implications for designing infrastructure, improving access, and promoting sustainability.