The toxification of the geosphere

One of the characteristics of the Anthropocene is the emergence of new synthesis molecules in the geosphere, and yet their behaviour and a toxicity are still essentially unknown to us. Whether it is because of their intrinsic persistence, or because of their continuous input, hundreds or thousands of compounds already form part, virtually, of all our ecosystems, no matter how remote they might seem, and sometimes in much higher concentrations than expected. We do not know what the biological effects of these compounds might be or which species they might affect. In fact, we are currently engaged in a large-scale toxicity experiment on the entire biosphere, and also on ourselves. The results remain to be seen, but the speaker will be showing a few of them.

With the collaboration

                   

Cycle: SCIENCE ON MONDAY how human beings are transforming the earth: the Anthropocene Age - I

Organized by: Residencia de Investigadores