Geologists have been engaged in a heated debate over the start of the Anthropocene, the epoch in which human impact on Earth became significant. The question of when exactly human beings began influencing nature on a planetary scale has no clear-cut answer. Some argue that it began with the advent of farming in early history, while others point to the Industrial Revolution or the 20th century as the starting point. This disagreement among geologists has led to a recent scientific dispute about whether to officially recognize the Anthropocene.
Contrary to media reports suggesting that geologists had rejected the proposal to recognize the Anthropocene, the debate is more nuanced. Geologists are actually discussing when the Anthropocene began and whether it should be defined as an epoch or an event within the official timeline of Earth history. They are also grappling with the question of whether to update the stratigraphic record, which documents Earth’s history from the pre-Cambrian to the Holocene.
The term “Anthropocene” has gained popularity in recent years to describe the current era in which human activities have profound impacts on the environment. Geologists, however, have a more specific definition in mind. They envision the Anthropocene as a new epoch that follows the Holocene, marked by distinct geological changes. To determine the beginning of this epoch, geologists typically look for a “golden spike,” a marker that can be traced to a specific time, place, and measurement.
The Anthropocene Working Group (AWG), a group of geologists, has been studying potential markers for the Anthropocene’s golden spike. In 2016, they identified several markers from the mid-20th century that are embedded in various natural formations worldwide. These markers include evidence of nuclear weapons tests, man-made deposits like microplastics, and changes in atmospheric carbon-14 levels. These markers could potentially be used by future geologists to date the beginning of the Anthropocene.
The AWG also proposed Crawford Lake in Canada as a potential location for the golden spike. The lake’s sediments contain a range of markers from the 1950s, making it an ideal candidate. Cores were extracted from the lake bed for further study and storage.
However, the AWG’s proposal faced opposition within the scientific community. Some researchers argued that alternative markers, such as methane rise from early farming or lead pollution from early mining and smelting, should be considered. There are also differing opinions on whether the Anthropocene should be classified as an epoch or an event.
Despite this recent setback, the concept of the Anthropocene is unlikely to disappear. The results of the vote are not yet official, and there are ongoing discussions about the validity of the vote itself. The AWG remains committed to its proposal and will continue to advocate for the formal recognition of the Anthropocene as an epoch.
While the debate over the start of the Anthropocene may seem esoteric to the general public, there is no denying that human activities have had a profound impact on Earth. The question of when it began may be more significant to geologists, but the duration of the Anthropocene affects everyone. As we grapple with climate change, pollution, and other environmental challenges, understanding the Anthropocene and its implications is crucial.
In conclusion, geologists are still debating when the Anthropocene officially began and whether it should be recognized as an epoch or an event. The recent vote on the matter has sparked controversy, but the concept of the Anthropocene is unlikely to fade away. Regardless of the outcome, it is clear that human activities have had a significant impact on Earth, and understanding the Anthropocene is essential for addressing environmental challenges.