Session Details

Sedimentary sequences and ages of rocks form the main issues studied by stratigraphers and by studying the Quaternary this has resulted in a wealth of detailed stratigraphical schemes. The development of Quaternary stratigraphy results for a large part from the extensive mapping of Quaternary deposits that has been executed in most European countries during the last century. Simultaneously, the extent of Quaternary research increased considerably and provided a firm knowledge of Quarternary geological processes and climate change. In addition, Quaternary sciences have contributed substantially to our understanding of the impact of climate change on the Earth's surface in a variety of depositional environments. Quaternary stratigraphy often demonstrates a great deal of detail at local and regional scales. Litho-, bio-, and chronostratigraphy and their admixtures form in many cases a starting point for interpretation and correlation. However, (geo)morphological characterisitics and palaeosoil sequences also play an important role in Quaternary stratigraphy.

Within the Section on Europe Quaternary Stratigraphy (SEQS) a long-lasting tradition exists to investigate and discuss Quaternary stratigraphical interpretations and correlations. In particular the attention is concentrated on the stratigraphical setting of classical Quaternary reference sites and sequences of Europe. An important prerequisite is the integration of the results from various (sub)disciplines, like palynology, studies on small and large mammals, sedimentology, archaeology, neotectonics, absolute dating techniques, and the Marine Istope Stages. In addition the correlation of European stratigraphical sequences to adjacent continents is also of particular interest.

We welcome contributions on Quaternary stratigraphy from newly investigated sequences and/or classical key-reference areas. Contributions may concern local or regional scales or attempts to cross-continental correlations. Information from the marine realm and terrestrial domains is welcomed. The session aims to discuss the pan-European correlations and encourage the presentation of multidisciplinary approaches.