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Rethinking geological concepts in the age of plastic pollution
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This paper proposes reframing traditional geological concepts—from sedimentology to stratigraphy and the Anthropocene epoch—in light of widespread plastic integration into sedimentary environments. Plastics are described as emerging stratigraphic markers that alter erosion, transport, and deposition patterns, threatening marine biodiversity and challenging the view of rocks as purely natural inorganic formations.
This paper attempts to reevaluate traditional geological classifications from sedimentology to stratigraphy as well as the concept of the Holocene/Anthropocene epochs, characterized by the widespread integration of plastics into sedimentary environments. This paper presents a set of novel insights into the interactions between synthetic materials and natural geological processes. We illustrate how plastics not only disrupt sedimentary dynamics and alter the composition of rocks and soils, creating new forms of pollution and also pose escalated threats to marine biodiversity through altered erosion, transport, and deposition patterns. We highlight the emerging role of plastics as distinctive stratigraphic markers, providing a different perspective on human environmental impacts. This analysis challenges the traditional perception of rocks as solely natural, inorganic formations and highlights the critical need for interdisciplinary approaches that meld geology, chemistry, and environmental science. The document calls for intensified research to develop effective strategies for managing these impacts and promotes innovative conservation techniques that address both the symptoms and sources of plastic pollution.
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This Swedish-language thesis examines the concept of the Anthropocene — the proposed geological epoch defined by human impacts on Earth — reviewing its scientific definition and potential stratigraphic markers. It provides context for understanding how plastic pollution is one of the defining markers of human influence on the planet.
Plastic pollution: archaeological perspective on an Anthropocene climate emergency
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This paper advocates for an archaeological perspective on plastic pollution, treating plastics as artefacts amenable to visual analysis and archaeological science while also serving as stratigraphic chronological markers in the Anthropocene. The author argues that plastic pollution threatens natural and cultural heritage sites and that archaeologists must engage with this emerging research and conservation challenge.
New plastic formations in the Anthropocene
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This review examined novel plastic formations in the Anthropocene, including pyroplastics, plastiglomerates, and plastic crusts formed through anthropogenic and environmental processes in the marine environment. These new geological materials represent a permanent record of the plastic age and have distinct physical and chemical properties from the original plastics from which they formed.
Part 1: Anthropocene Series/Epoch: stratigraphic context and justification of rank The Anthropocene Epoch and Crawfordian Age: proposals by the Anthropocene Working Group
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This paper by the Anthropocene Working Group proposes formally defining the Anthropocene as a new geological epoch, marked by human-caused changes starting around the 1950s. Among the stratigraphic signals used to define this era, microplastics are listed as a key marker, alongside nuclear fallout and synthetic chemicals. The inclusion of microplastics as a defining feature of a geological epoch underscores just how widespread and permanent plastic pollution has become in Earth's systems.
Candidate sites and other reference sections for the Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point of the Anthropocene series
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This paper reviews 12 proposed sites around the world that could serve as the official geological marker for the start of the Anthropocene, the proposed new epoch defined by human impact on the planet. Among the key markers of human influence found at these sites are microplastics, which appear in sediment layers starting around the mid-20th century. The widespread presence of microplastics in geological records underscores just how profoundly plastic pollution has altered the planet.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.