General introduction to environmental and facies analysis

Abstract

Environmental analysis is the particular concern of geologically orientated sedimentologists. In the hands of a skilled operator the deductions that can be made from a stratigraphic sequence rival those of the celebrated Sherlock Holmes. The practice of such analysis requires a deep knowledge of sedimentary processes, a wide acquaintance with the literature dealing with modern sedimentary environments, and a degree of experience in dealing with previous problems. The particular appeal of the analysis lies in its central role, depending on insights gained from the whole of sedimentology with its ramifications and linkages with many other geological and geomorphological disciplines. Environmental analysis is of particular importance in economic studies (Ch. 31). The poor environmental analyst is dogmatic, inflexible and narrow minded, often dependent upon a simple generalised hypothesis into which he forces uncomfortable observations. Frequently he is scornful of attempts to integrate quantitative techniques into his work, with the excuse that natural processes are too ‘noisy’ for such exercises.