Environmental archaeology
The environmental laboratory was established in 1980. It is run by Dr Charlotte O'Brien who has a doctorate in palaeoecology and over 8 years experience in the analysis of plant remains from sites in the UK and abroad.
We process material and provide assessments and analyses of
- plant macrofossils (charred and waterlogged)
- pollen
- human remains
- industrial residues
- diatoms
- molluscs
- wood and charcoal
- faunal remains
- textiles (plant fibres)
- insects
- foraminifera
Environmental assessments
In accordance with English Heritage's Management of Archaeological Projects guidelines, assessments will provide quantity of material and means of data collection
- condition of material
- range and variety of material
- the potential of the material to address questions posed in the project design
- the potential value of the material to local, regional and national research objectives
- recommendations for further work
Analysis
Analysis of environmental material can produce information on
- past environments, including habitat and climate
- agricultural practices
- husbandry practices
- diet
- economic and social interpretation
For further information contact Dr Charlotte O'Brien on
0191 334 1113