The new challenge
In an Earth's Future commentary published on 1 October, researchers call for disclosure and an independent review of the procedure behind rejecting a formal Anthropocene epoch. They raise questions about voting and access to documents. These are the authors' criticisms, not findings of an independent inquiry. [1, 3]
What has not changed
The IUGS–ICS statement approved rejection of the proposed epoch in March 2024. The new commentary does not reverse that decision. The statement also recognises 'Anthropocene' as a useful descriptor of human impact beyond the formal time scale. [2]
What to keep in mind
This is a disputed institutional and scientific debate. Publication of criticism does not establish misconduct or formally create a new geological epoch.
Sources & context
Numbered references link the explanation to its sources. Hypothetical examples and visual metaphors are labelled in the text. Checked 3 October 2026.
- Earth's Future: Science or Strategy? (Commentary)
- IUGS–ICS: Formal rejection statement (March 2024)
- Max Planck: Researchers call for transparency
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