Late Neolithic and Chalcolithic maritime resilience? The 4.2 ka BP event and its implications for environments and societies in Northwest Europe

A significant population decline occurred on the Orkney Islands around 2300 BC, coinciding with the 4.2 ka BP climatic event, which likely caused regionally varied changes in humidity and temperature across Northwest Europe. This study reveals that while some communities adapted by developing new food storage and house-building techniques, others faced substantial demographic shifts. The research also highlights the emergence of a maritime Early Bronze Age culture, characterized by interconnected exchange networks, suggesting resilience to climate change through cultural innovation.

Kleijne, J., Weinelt, M., & Müller, J. (2020). Late Neolithic and Chalcolithic maritime resilience? The 4.2 ka BP event and its implications for environments and societies in Northwest Europe. Environmental Research Letters, 15(12), 125003. https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/aba3d6