Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability Archives - State of the Planet

man in sunglasses near baby elephant

Protecting Biodiversity Requires Action at All Levels

As the U.N. gathers for a biodiversity summit, an alum reminds us that citizens’ actions and voices can make a difference, too.

by Andrés Córdova |September 29, 2020
teak plantation in india

Biodiverse Forests Better at Storing Carbon for Long Periods, Says Study

Supports policies that protect and regenerate natural forests instead of planting new ones.

by |January 3, 2020

Out on the Farm With SEE-U NYC

This summer, the Summer Ecosystem Experiences for Undergraduates gave students an in-depth look at the food systems in and around NYC.

by |October 11, 2019

Why You Should Shop at the Farmers Market

In honor of National Farmers Market Week, a staffer who used to work at the market tells us why farmers markets are valuable community resources.

by |August 9, 2019
prairie wildflowers in restored ecosystem

Nature-Based Solutions: The Missing Ingredient in Climate Adaptation?

Restoring natural ecosystems can make communities more resilient to climate change while offering other benefits along the way.

by |June 28, 2019
gecko in a human hand

Nonhuman Life Should Be Central to Sustainability Problem-Solving

A dire new U.N. report highlights the importance of including all life in our pursuit to sustain humanity.

by |May 7, 2019
don melnick portrait

In Memoriam: Don Melnick

Professor Melnick’s life and work have been a force for advancing science and securing environmental sustainability around the world. He died on April 18th.

by |April 22, 2019

Why Endangered Species Matter

The Endangered Species Act is under attack. If we don’t protect endangered species, their extinction will impact our food, water, environment and health.

by |March 26, 2019
tractor on farm

What’s Needed for a Sustainable, Equitable and Healthy Food System?

A report integrates the environmental, health, and social impacts of agriculture into one framework to help us make informed decisions about food.

by |February 7, 2019
inclusive wealth index vs GDP

This Index Measures Progress and Sustainability Better Than GDP

By accounting for human, social, and natural resources, the Inclusive Wealth Index can help guide sustainable development.

by |October 9, 2018