Explore how plastics have become a hallmark of the Anthropocene – the period during which humans have had a substantial impact on our planet – and a permanent part of Earth’s geology. Researcher Veronica Di Cecco invites us to explore plastiglomerates – rocks that consist of sedimentary grains and other natural debris – all held together by plastic. Through this research, we can begin to understand the role that plastics now play in ecosystems around the world. Hosted by Soren Brothers, we take a closer look at the role of plastiglomerates in defining how human actions have permanently altered the planet.

Speakers:

Dr. Soren Brothers

Dr. Soren Brothers is the Allan and Helaine Shiff Curator of Climate Change ROM. He is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Toronto. Soren’s research examines the effects of climate change on lakes, and how changes in aquatic systems can influence their greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. More broadly, he is interested in understanding how feedback loops and the transdisciplinary study of lakes can help us better understand and predict global tipping points that may accelerate anthropogenic climate change.

Veronica Di Cecco

Veronica Di Cecco is a Minerology Technician at ROM, with a love for Earth and planetary science that was ignited by her early visits to the Museum in primary school. She joined ROM in 2015 and is currently responsible for the analysis and identification of minerals, meteorites, gems, and other inorganic material. Veronica supervises students in the lab, and is responsible for maintaining safety standards, both in the mineralogy lab and as ROM’s Radiation Safety Officer. Currently, as part of a major ongoing project, Veronica has helped classify over 100 meteorites that are in the process of being added to the museum's collections.

Recorded April 18, 2024