Locating the Anthropocene

Drill core from Crawford Lake: In this Canadian lake, calcium and carbonate ions
Drill core from Crawford Lake: In this Canadian lake, calcium and carbonate ions from the surrounding rocks combine and crystallize into small calcite crystals when the water is warm. These crystals gradually sink and form a distinct white layer at the lake bottom each summer. This natural phenomenon provides researchers with a precise chronological marker, allowing them to determine the specific year being examined. Around the year 1950, there is a notable increase in the concentration of plutonium particles. This significant change serves as a clear indication of human impact and, consequently, provides evidence of the Anthropocene era. © Tim Patterson

Officially, we are currently living in the geological epoch known as the Holocene. But the profound impact of human activities on the Earth’s systems has triggered discussions regarding a new era: the Anthropocene. Yet, until now, there has been a lack of clear scientific evidence, specifically a unique reference point, to signify the onset of this new epoch. An international geological working group has now successfully addressed this gap. In the future, a small lake in Canada will serve as the designated geological repository of evidence, marking the transition into the human era. The Max Planck Society has played a significant role in propelling research on the Anthropocene and has contributed valuable insights to the efforts of the working group. ...

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