Atomic scientists push clock to 89 seconds before midnight, citing nuclear risk, AI and climate crisis as a ‘warning.

The Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of how close humanity is to global catastrophe, has been moved to 89 seconds before midnight. This adjustment reflects heightened threats from Russian nuclear activities amid the Ukraine conflict, global tensions, military uses of artificial intelligence, and the ongoing climate crisis.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists established this clock in 1947, during the Cold War, to alert the public about potential world-ending dangers. Daniel Holz, chair of the Bulletin’s science and security board, emphasized that risks such as nuclear threat, climate change, and the misuse of biological science and AI have persisted without significant progress in mitigating them.

Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine has exacerbated nuclear risks, and President Vladimir Putin’s decision to lower the threshold for a nuclear strike has added to global concerns. Additionally, Russia’s refusal to discuss a new treaty to replace the expiring New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty underscores the nuclear threat.

Instability in the Middle East, heightened tensions between China and Taiwan, and North Korea’s missile tests further contribute to global security risks. Last year was recorded as the hottest year ever, highlighting the severe impacts of climate change despite advances in renewable energy.

In summary, the Doomsday Clock serves as a stark warning about the urgent need for global leaders to address these escalating threats.