The new Anthropocene biosphere

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecology
• Earth System Science

Background:

• The current biosphere, termed the Anthropocene, has significantly diverged from the Holocene epoch since the mid-20th century.
• Human activities have led to a biosphere dominated by humans and domesticated animals, reduced wild species, and transformed ecosystems.
• Global biodiversity has decreased, with increased homogeneity across terrestrial and marine environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the key characteristics and impacts of the Anthropocene biosphere.
• To contrast the Anthropocene biosphere with its Holocene predecessor.
• To discuss the implications of human-induced changes on Earth's systems and biodiversity.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of Holocene and Anthropocene biosphere characteristics.
• Review of scientific and philosophical studies on human impact.
• Assessment of ecosystem transformations and biodiversity trends.

Main Results:

• The Anthropocene biosphere is characterized by human dominance, ecosystem transformation for human use, and reduced biodiversity.
• Earth's fundamental systems (climate, biogeochemical cycles) have been altered by human actions.
• Even protected areas are threatened by ongoing human pressures, indicating an irreversible trajectory.

Conclusions:

• The Anthropocene represents a distinct and irreversible departure from the Holocene biosphere.
• Human pressures continue to drive significant changes, impacting global biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
• Mitigation strategies exist but face increasing human population pressures.