環境

In the middle reaches of the Tama River, erosion of the river bed has caused marked wearing away of strata, leading to the successive exposure of fossils. This has put in place conditions that enable anyone to easily observe geological phenomena.

However, if the situation is left as it is, precious fossils will be lost.

Such information about natural history is not disseminated to the public at present. Neither is there any infrastructure for this.

In this study, we used molluscan fossils from the Tama River as teaching materials to provide opportunities for investigative learning about Quaternary Science and prepared a framework that will enable the public to continue learning about paleoenvironments.

More specifically, this involves organizing molluscan fossil-collecting gatherings for the public.

We arranged two experimental fossil collection programs, using random- and surface-collection methods, and devised and implemented a cycle of environmental education based on public participation.

With the cooperation of Akishima City, we held a hands-on outdoor event and a meeting to present our findings, thereby feeding back to the public the benefits of our program of investigative learning about Quaternary Science in a tangible way.

Izumi Taura