State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

stormwater runoff

  • How Climate Change Impacts Our Water

    How Climate Change Impacts Our Water

    Climate change disrupts the water cycle in ways that could profoundly alter how we live our lives.

  • When It Rains, It Pours: The Effects of Stormwater Runoff

    When It Rains, It Pours: The Effects of Stormwater Runoff

    Stormwater runoff can cause a lot of problems in aquatic ecosystems. Here’s how you can help mitigate those effects.

  • So Much Depends on a Tree Guard

    So Much Depends on a Tree Guard

    Adding protective barriers around street trees could reduce load on city sewers, study finds.

  • Students Advise County on Permeable Pavement

    Students Advise County on Permeable Pavement

    The biggest barrier to installation or permeable pavement is funding. But the positive outcomes include reduced flooding, less stormwater runoff, and recharging of aquifers.

  • New York Lets a Thousand Bioswales Bloom

    New York Lets a Thousand Bioswales Bloom

    In an effort to curb sewage overflows, New York City has turned to green infrastructure: right-of-way bioswales, green roofs and rain gardens, among other practices. These measures help decrease stormwater runoff by increasing pervious areas and introducing water-loving plants that can absorb some of the water and encourage evaporation.

Colorful icons representing nature, sustainable living, and renewable energy with text "Earth Day 2026"

The first Earth Day in 1970 ignited a movement to stop polluting our planet. Today, our scientists and experts are tackling the most pressing challenges to achieve real-world impact. This Earth Day, join us in our commitment to realizing a just and sustainable future for our planet. Visit our Earth Day website for ideas, resources, and inspiration.

  • How Climate Change Impacts Our Water

    How Climate Change Impacts Our Water

    Climate change disrupts the water cycle in ways that could profoundly alter how we live our lives.

  • When It Rains, It Pours: The Effects of Stormwater Runoff

    When It Rains, It Pours: The Effects of Stormwater Runoff

    Stormwater runoff can cause a lot of problems in aquatic ecosystems. Here’s how you can help mitigate those effects.

  • So Much Depends on a Tree Guard

    So Much Depends on a Tree Guard

    Adding protective barriers around street trees could reduce load on city sewers, study finds.

  • Students Advise County on Permeable Pavement

    Students Advise County on Permeable Pavement

    The biggest barrier to installation or permeable pavement is funding. But the positive outcomes include reduced flooding, less stormwater runoff, and recharging of aquifers.

  • New York Lets a Thousand Bioswales Bloom

    New York Lets a Thousand Bioswales Bloom

    In an effort to curb sewage overflows, New York City has turned to green infrastructure: right-of-way bioswales, green roofs and rain gardens, among other practices. These measures help decrease stormwater runoff by increasing pervious areas and introducing water-loving plants that can absorb some of the water and encourage evaporation.