Researchers from the Universities of York and Hull have found microplastic pollution in archaeological remains dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. The discovery appears in a recent issue of a science journal focused on environmental science topics.
Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments that measure from one micrometer up to 5 millimeters. These particles, once considered irrelevant to archaeology, now emerge as a potential disruptor of our understanding of past human activity.
Professor John Schofield commented on the findings, noting that what were once seen as pristine sites are now found to contain plastic traces. He described the contamination as a factor that could skew scientific interpretations and complicate analyses at sites chosen for study since the late 1980s.
The study identified 16 distinct microplastic types in both contemporary and ancient sediment samples, indicating the pervasive reach of plastic pollution across time and space. This presence challenges archaeologists to rethink how sediments are collected, stored, and analyzed to preserve genuine historical signals.
David Jennings, chief executive of the York Archaeology organization, highlighted that plastic pollution poses concerns not only for ecosystems but also for archaeological science. The infiltration of polymer particles can alter soil chemistry and hasten the breakdown of organic materials, potentially erasing valuable information about past environments and human activities.
According to the researchers, there is a need to develop protective measures for sedimentary archives. Strategies could include controlled storage conditions, more selective sampling, and analytical techniques designed to distinguish between ancient materials and modern contaminants. The goal is to safeguard the integrity of archaeological records while acknowledging the ongoing impact of waste streams on the ground beneath us.
In historical notes, a separate era of plastic use is recognized through the discovery of ancient crafts and cosmetic items. One such finding is the oldest red lipstick, which provides insight into early cosmetic practices and cultural expressions. These case studies remind researchers that material traces, whether from beauty products or everyday refuse, can reveal much about the social and cultural life of past communities if interpreted with care and rigor.