sustainable living
From the Series
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Quick Tips to Repair Broken Items and Keep Them Out of the Landfill
The longer we can extend the lifetimes of consumer products, the better off our planet will be.
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The 37 Easiest Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint (Animated Graphic)
Making a difference on climate change doesn’t have to take lots of time or effort.
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Individually, We Can’t End Climate Change. But That Doesn’t Mean We Shouldn’t Try.
Although one person can’t save the world, they can make choices that avoid making things worse.
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You Asked: Should I Buy Biodegradable Materials If My Trash Just Goes to a Landfill?
Our expert says: It’s better than adding another piece of plastic to the problem.
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Reduce. Reuse. And Then, When All Else Fails, Recycle.
Recycling gets all the attention, but emphasizing reduction and reuse can do so much more to manage waste and curb climate emissions.
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Purchasing Power: How Conscientious Buying Can Enable a More Just and Sustainable Future
A conversation with author and Barnard sustainability director Sandra Goldmark on how to live in a material world while minimizing harm to the planet.
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How to Have a More Sustainable Valentine’s Day
It’s possible to celebrate your loved ones while remembering your love for the planet and its people.
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Your Holiday Trash Could Be Contributing to Environmental Injustice
Here are a few things you can do to help.
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Killing ‘Evil’ Trash During This Year’s Durga Puja Celebrations
October is a time for Indian festivities starting with Durga Puja. This year our Durga celebration also included a green mission.
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