Democracy Dies in Darkness

How long until it’s too late to save Earth from climate disaster? This clock is counting down.

September 21, 2020 at 4:10 p.m. EDT
The Climate Clock counts down the time left for humans to act on global warming, as well the amount of energy supplied from renewable sources. (Video: Beautiful Trouble)

How long does the world have left to act before an irreversible climate emergency alters human existence as we know it? A new digital clock unveiled in Manhattan’s Union Square over the weekend promises to tell you — down to the very second.

The Climate Clock unveiled by artists Gan Golan and Andrew Boyd warned at 1:30 p.m. Monday that there were 7 years, 101 days, 17 hours, 29 minutes and 22 seconds until Earth’s carbon budget is depleted, based on current emission rates. A total depletion would thrust the world into further turmoil and suffering through more flooding, more wildfires, worsening famine and extensive human displacement, according to the artists.