Columbia Water Center Archives - State of the Planet

Texas Guardsmen assist a motorist stuck on snow and ice during extreme winter weather conditions in Abilene, Texas

How Unprecedented Was the February 2021 Texas Cold Snap?

A look at historical trends shows that extreme cold spells are relatively common during Texas winters. Maybe it’s time to start designing for it.

by James Doss-Gollin, David J Farnham, Upmanu Lall, Vijay Modi |March 16, 2021
Paulina Concha Larrauri standing near a gate

Paulina Concha Larrauri: From Making Detergent to Ensuring Access to Clean Water

At the Columbia Water Center, she has worked to promote equal access to clean water, reduce risks to disadvantaged populations, and protect the environment.

by |September 24, 2020
great lakes maps

Do Two Failed Dams Foretell a Dire Future?

What happened in Michigan shines a light on our aging and failing infrastructure. The question remains, will we do something now to fix it?

by Upmanu Lall and Paulina Concha Larrauri |May 27, 2020
Shepherds herd sheep on horseback in Uruguay

Beautiful Planet: Earth Institute Photos From Around the Globe

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. To celebrate, we’re sharing images of places and projects around the world that highlight our planet’s incredible beauty.

by |April 20, 2020
jully reading in front of window

How Earth Institute Experts De-Stress Under Lockdown

From knitting to yoga and chocolate chip cookies, here’s how some of our team members are taking their minds off the pandemic.

by |April 16, 2020

Three EI Projects Make Top 100 Proposals for MacArthur $100 Million Grant

The three projects are among the top contenders in the 100&Change competition, selected from 755 proposals.

by |February 19, 2020

10 Climate Change Impacts That Will Affect Us All

And how to protect yourself from them. 

by |December 27, 2019
man looking at papers

Spring 2020 Earth Institute Internship Opportunities

A variety of undergraduate, graduate and PhD positions are available in various departments and research centers. Apply by January 29, 2019.

by |December 9, 2019
flooded backyard

How Climate Change Impacts Our Water

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

by |September 23, 2019

You Asked About River Salinity and Water Pollution

A Columbia Water Center staffer answers questions about salinization and water pollution.

by |May 3, 2019