For almost 15 years, scientists have debated whether the Anthropocene should be an official geological epoch marking the profound influence of humans on the planet. Then in March, an international panel of scientists formally rejected the proposal for a new Anthropocene epoch.

In this episode, two scientists give us their different opinions on whether that was the right decision and what it means for the future use of the word Anthropocene. 

Featuring Jan Zalasiewicz, professor of palaeobiology at the University of Leicester in the UK, and Erle C. Ellis, professor of geography and environmental systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in the US. Plus an introduction from Will de Freitas, environment and energy editor at The Conversation in the UK.

This episode was written and produced by Tiffany Cassidy with assistance from Katie Flood. Eloise Stevens does our sound design, and our theme music is by Neeta Sarl. Gemma Ware is the executive producer. Full credits available here. A transcript is now available

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Further reading

• The Anthropocene is not an epoch − but the age of humans is most definitely underway
• What the Anthropocene’s critics overlook – and why it really should be a new geological epoch
• Anthropocene or not, it is our current epoch that we should be fighting for
• The Anthropocene already exists in our heads, even if it’s now officially not a geological epoch