Scientists are debating whether the Earth has entered a new geological epoch called the Anthropocene. They have estimated that a decision on this could be made around 2017 or 2018. The Anthropocene would mark a period where human activities have significantly changed Earth's geological processes, potentially starting from the Industrial Revolution or the end of World War II. This new epoch would stand apart from the Holocene, which has been the current epoch for the past 12,000 years. The discussion revolves around determining a clear starting point for the Anthropocene based on the profound impact of human actions on the Earth's geological conditions.