Fri Jun 27 07:21:31 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Oldest Rocks on Earth Discovered in Canada, Offer Glimpse into Planet’s Earliest History**

*New York, June 27, 2025 (The Hindu)* – Scientists have potentially identified the oldest rocks on Earth within the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt in Quebec, Canada. A new study published in the journal *Science* confirms that rocks sampled from the belt are approximately 4.16 billion years old, placing them among the planet’s earliest formations.

Researchers used two different radiometric dating techniques, yielding the same age and reinforcing the validity of the finding. The discovery could provide crucial insights into Earth’s early conditions, including the transition from magma oceans to tectonic plates and the potential origins of life.

“To have a sample of what was going on on Earth way back then is really valuable,” said Mark Reagan with the University of Iowa, who studies volcanic rocks and lava and was not involved with the new study.

However, the site’s importance is also drawing concerns. The rock formation is on tribal Inukjuak lands and the local Inuit community has temporarily restricted scientists from taking samples from the site due to damage from previous visits. Following previous research trips, large chunks of rock were discovered to be missing, with some pieces appearing for sale online.

The Inuit community is now advocating for the establishment of a provincial park to protect the land and its precious geological resources, while still allowing for responsible scientific research. “There’s a lot of interest for these rocks, which we understand,” said Tommy Palliser, who manages the land with the Pituvik Landholding Corp. “We just don’t want any more damage.”

Scientists are eager to continue studying the rocks, hoping to further unravel the mysteries of our planet’s formative years. The discovery marks a significant step forward in understanding Earth’s earliest history and the processes that shaped the world we know today.

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