The trash most of us unconsciously leave behind can reveal more than we think, according to archaeologist Kristina Douglass. The Columbia University professor and 2025 MacArthur Fellow sits down with Newsweek to explain how archaeology uncovers a more honest version of history—one shaped not by those in power, but by the everyday traces people leave behind.

Drawing from her groundwork in Madagascar, Douglass highlights why working with local communities is critical to solving today’s climate challenges, and how generations of lived knowledge can help guide more sustainable decisions for the future.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.