plastosequione

Plastosequione is a theoretical concept referring to a hypothetical geological layer or stratum composed predominantly of plastic materials. This concept emerges from discussions about the long-term fate of plastic waste and its potential to persist in the Earth's geological record. Unlike traditional geological strata formed by natural processes such as sedimentation, volcanism, or tectonic activity, a plastosequione would be a marker of human industrial activity and widespread plastic pollution.

The formation of such a layer would depend on the rate of plastic production, its disposal methods, and its subsequent degradation or preservation. While most plastics break down into smaller microplastics and nanoplastics, some might aggregate, become buried, and potentially lithify over geological timescales. The persistence of plastic polymers, which can last for hundreds or thousands of years, makes their inclusion in future geological strata plausible.

Scientists and geologists consider the plastosequione as a potential indicator of the Anthropocene, the proposed geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. The presence of a distinct plastosequione would serve as tangible evidence of the modern era's material culture and environmental consequences. Research into the accumulation and transformation of plastic waste in various environments, including landfills, oceans, and soils, contributes to understanding the conditions under which a plastosequione might eventually form.