Water
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Asia’s Glaciers Have Become a Diplomatic Talking Point
As glaciers continue to shrink, important questions around glacier diplomacy and water supply played out among Central Asian nations during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan.
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Microplastics Are Chemically Active, and Could Cause Biological Harm
A new study found that when microplastics contact water, their surfaces can become chemically reactive. This could be how they get us sick.
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A New Tool for Matching Water Solutions to Community Needs
Sustainable development alum Dylan Dettloff used his Columbia Climate School Collaborative Research Grant to develop a Python-based decision tool to help rural and water-scarce communities identify the most suitable desalination technologies.
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World Oceans Day Reimagines Our Relationship With the Water Around Us
In honor of this annual U.N. event, we are highlighting our coverage of ocean research and education initiatives at the Columbia Climate School and Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
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Increasing Tensions in Kashmir Threaten Water Security for Over 200 Million People
Recent conflicts between India and Pakistan, coupled with the changing climate, have revived concerns over food and water security in the region.
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From Mountain Regions to Island States: U.N. Celebrates First World Glacier Day
U.N. delegates and glaciologists convened to address the profound impacts of accelerating glacial melting, particularly for freshwater resources, mountain communities and small island states.
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Bottled Water Can Contain Hundreds of Thousands of Previously Uncounted Tiny Plastic Bits, Study Finds
Using a new technique, scientists have been able to identify extremely minute plastic fragments in bottled water, 10 times more than previously counted.
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Water Week Event Sparks Deep Discussion Around Community-driven Urban Planning
More than 70 researchers, government officials, consultants, and academics came together at the Forum to discuss alternative solutions and approaches for water action in cities.
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First ‘Worlds at Waste’ Conference Takes an Interdisciplinary Look at Water in South Asia
From glaciers and landslides to displacement and flooding, two Columbia University professors broke down academic silos and reflected on water issues.
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
