Title: Mathematical Analysis of Anthropogenic Signatures: The Great Deceleration,
Abstract: Distributions of anthropogenic signatures (impacts and activities) are
mathematically analysed. The aim is to understand the Anthropocene and to see
whether anthropogenic signatures could be used to determine its beginning. A
total of 23 signatures were analysed and results are presented in 31 diagrams.
Some of these signatures contain undistinguishable natural components but most
of them are of purely anthropogenic origin. Great care was taken to identify
abrupt accelerations, which could be used to determine the beginning of the
Anthropocene. Results of the analysis can be summarised in three conclusions.
1. Anthropogenic signatures cannot be used to determine the beginning of the
Anthropocene. 2. There was no abrupt Great Acceleration around 1950 or around
any other time. 3. Anthropogenic signatures are characterised by the Great
Deceleration in the second half of the 20th century. The second half of the
20th century does not mark the beginning of the Anthropocene but most likely
the beginning of the end of the strong anthropogenic impacts, maybe even the
beginning of a transition to a sustainable future. The Anthropocene is a unique
stage in human experience but it has no clearly marked beginning and it is
probably not a new geological epoch.