Bloomberg Launches Real-Time Carbon Clock

Bloomberg launched a carbon clock to show the continual increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. (Courtesy of Bloomberg)

Similar to the ever-rising U.S. debt clock, a new carbon clock released by Bloomberg aims to show the increase of the atmospheric pollutant carbon dioxide in real time. The clock is not based on data coming in, but instead built on historical averages of CO2 in the atmosphere.

The averages shown in the clock date all the way back to 1958, when atmospheric carbon dioxide levels sat around 316 parts per million. From there, it charts the increases that have been seen in the levels up to today. Using averages over time, the carbon clock then puts out an estimate of what the CO2 levels are likely to be at present.

The tool provides a nice visual aid for depicting the rises in atmospheric carbon dioxide over Earth’s history. When users scroll down, the clock also shares some neat facts and descriptions that help to underscore the significance of rises in carbon dioxide levels as well as make them easier to understand. A rotating Earth, complete with simulations of atmospheric activity and day and night fall, helps to keep users interested.

Top image: Bloomberg launched a carbon clock to show the continual increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. (Courtesy of Bloomberg)