The deepest layers of carbon-14 dated ice found in the French Alps provide a record of atmospheric conditions in the ancient Roman era. Published in Geophysical Research Letters, the study, led by an international team and coordinated by a CNRS scientist, reveals significant atmospheric pollution from heavy metals: the presence of lead and antimony is linked to mining activity and lead and silver production by the ancient Romans.
Source: EurekaAlert, https://www.eurekalert.org