Urban Environment Lab

Today's Research on the Challenges of Sustainable Development

The current social context surrounding climate change is ushering in a new era of land use, planning, and development, one that reconsiders the role of natural disasters, natural resources, and environmental impacts on the communities in which we live. The Urban Environment Lab engages students, policy-makers, and research partners in collaborative projects and discussions on the determinants of hazard vulnerability, community resilience, sustainable development, and infrastructure adaptation at the intersection of the natural, social, and built environments.

Chipping Away at the Ice Ceiling: Women Scientists Explore Nepal’s Ponkar Glacier May 8, 2025
The International Center for Integrated Mountain Development launched the first Hindu Kush Himalaya Women on Ice expedition in December.
Guest
All of the Biggest U.S. Cities Are Sinking May 8, 2025
From the coasts to the interior, urban areas are sinking. The main culprit: pumping of groundwater.
Kevin Krajick
Forecasting with Purpose: Creating Community Through Climate Journalism May 6, 2025
Kalain Hosein, a soon-to-be-graduate of the M.A. in Climate and Society program, reports on small island developing states, natural disasters and climate resilience.
Guest
Nanoplastics Are All Around (and Inside) Us May 5, 2025
How are humans exposed to these tiny and ubiquitous plastics? And is there anything we can do about it?
Renée Cho
Lamont-Doherty Mourns IT Exec and Entrepreneur Edward Botwinick BS’58 May 1, 2025
The former university trustee was an early leader in data communications and a steadfast supporter of Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
Columbia Climate School

Urban Environment Lab

Today's Research on the Challenges of Sustainable Development

State of the Planet