Us to Earth: We Will Rock You

Geologically speaking, nature usually calls the shots. Historically it's been the case that major natural events—shifting tectonic plates, volcanoes, even asteroids—have shaped the trajectory of life on this planet. Not anymore. A team of researchers from the University of Leicester and the Geological Society of London is the latest group to make the case that the Holocene era is coming to an end, and the Anthropocene (meaning, basically, man-made) is on its way in. Our impact on the planet is so profound, say the scientists, we've changed our home for good. The evidence:

* Vastly altered sediment erosion and deposition patterns.
* Major disturbances to the carbon cycle and global temperature.
* Wholesale changes in biology, from altered flowering times to new migration patterns.
* Acidification of the ocean, which threatens tiny marine life that forms the bottom of the food chain.

This isn't a new idea. The term "Anthropocene Era" was coined by Paul Crutzen, winner of the 1995 Chemistry Nobel Prize. Crutzen identified three phases of the era—and made some guesses as to what we can expect next.

If you're still not convinced, consider another recent study: Soil scientists at Duke University say that these days, even the dirt beneath our feet is man-made. Says lead researcher Daniel Richter:

“With more than half of all soils on Earth now being cultivated for food crops, grazed, or periodically logged for wood, how to sustain Earth’s soils is becoming a major scientific and policy issue.”

To see a cool interactive map of humans' effect on soil worldwide, go here.

Comments

Thanks for the link, Kiera. It's an honor to be linked to by Mother Jones!

Posted by: SocProf on 01/28/08 at 3:08 PM Respond

"Historically it's been the case that major natural events—shifting tectonic plates, volcanoes, even asteroids—have shaped the trajectory of life on this planet. Not anymore." This quote holds no validity! Maybe humans play an increased role, but what power over shifting tectonic plates, volcanoes, and asteroids do we have? I would venture to say that any of these events still dramatically effect the trajectory of life on this planet. What proof do we have against an asteroid? The last one of any size to hit Earth hasn't occurred for centuries. I'm guessing that it would still be catastrophic though. Also, the scientists cite rising temperatures!?!? Serious?? This has been a part of the world since it was created some 4.5 billion years ago. during the history of earth its experienced higher highs and lower lows (i.e. the ice age). I don't disagree that global warming is occurring, but I do need more conclusive reasons to believe that humans have such a profound impact. We have an impact and I don't like it, but these scientists just give us vague crap. Earth will always adjust, but we may no longer be able to adapt quickly enough ourselves. We depend on it no matter what happens.

Us to Earth: We Will Rock You

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