Residents of Melbourne are experiencing mixed reactions to the recent installation of a climate change clock in Fitzroy North’s Edinburgh Gardens. Designed by artist Yandell Walton, the “Zone Red” clock serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate issues, counting down to 2030—an essential target year identified by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for reducing emissions to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
This solar-powered artwork not only symbolises the potential consequences of climate inaction, such as extreme weather and rising sea levels, but also highlights the resilience and vulnerability of the community. According to the City of Yarra, each tick of the clock is a compelling juxtaposition of alarm and hope, urging individuals to reflect on their contributions to climate change.
Walton emphasises that the installation is meant to inspire action while acknowledging the pressing realities posed by climate science. Despite the local debate over its presence, the clock is seen as a powerful call to change, with the hope that collective human effort can foster significant environmental improvements before it’s too late. The installation is set to remain in the park until April.