Columbia University is one of the world’s most important centers of research, located in New York City. The Earth Institute’s  International Research Institute for Climate and Society focuses on enhancing society’s capability to understand, anticipate and manage the impacts of climate in order to improve human welfare and the environment, especially in developing countries. The IRI conducts this mission through strategic and applied research, education, capacity building, and by providing forecasts and information products with an emphasis on practical and verifiable utility and partnership.