Holocene environmental changes and cultural transformation in the Bashang Region: Multi-proxy evidence from the Xinglong site

Focusing on the Xinglong site—one of the region's earliest Neolithic settlements—this study integrates multi-dimensional particle size analysis with multiple climate proxies, including geochemical elements, clay minerals, total organic carbon (TOC) and pollen data, to reconstruct the paleoclimatic sequence since 11,700 cal yr BP and explore human-environment interactions. The environmental evolution in the Bashang region since 11,700 cal yr BP exhibits three stages: (1) Early Holocene (11,700–10,000 cal yr BP): characterized by warm-humid conditions and frequent climatic fluctuations. The stable, low-energy sedimentary conditions created by local topography provided favorable conditions for early human habitation. (2) Early–Mid Holocene (10,000–5000 cal yr BP): generally favorable but interrupted by cold-dry events. The enhanced dynamic events may have pushed settlements from valleys to slopes and promoted mixed farming and hunting-gathering economies. The warm-wet interval 9000–7000 cal yr BP may have supported the flourishing Yumin Culture, whereas aridification after 7000 cal yr BP correlates with weakened cultural continuity and greater human mobility. (3) Late Holocene (since 5000 cal yr BP): persistent cold-dry climate may have contributed to site abandonment, with brief reoccupation during historical dynasties. These findings suggest environmental changes may play an important role in the development and transformation of Neolithic cultures in this region.