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Scientists recently proposed formalising an ‘Anthropocene Epoch’ on the geologic time scale, triggering several debates.
The earth’s geological history is divided into multiple epochs depending on their natural character.
We are officially currently in the Holocene Epoch, which started around 11,700 years ago.
But many scientists believe the Holocene Epoch has ended and the Anthropocene Epoch has started.
A period of time characterised by humankind’s large-scale effects on the earth, including climate change and pollution.
What is Anthropocene Epoch?
The Anthropocene Epoch is a proposed geologic time period that reflects the significant impact humans have had on Earth's geology and ecosystems.
It's distinct from the current official epoch, the Holocene, which began around 11,700 years ago after the last ice age.
The Anthropocene is not yet formally recognized by the International Commission on Stratigraphy (ICS), the official body for naming geological time periods.
The defining characteristic of the Anthropocene is the substantial influence of human actions on
Earth's systems.
This influence is evident in climate change, biodiversity loss, and changes in land use.
There's no universally agreed-upon starting point for the Anthropocene.
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