Problems of lithostratigraphic classification of Holocene deposits in the perimarine area of the Netherlands

Abstract

The definition and subdivision of the Westland Formation, especially with regard to the so-called 'perimarine deposits', has met with serious objections. These objections result from the mingling of the concepts of lithostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy, and genesis. It is concluded that the lithostratigraphic classification of the Holocene sediments in the Netherlands' coastal area has to be disconnected from the genetic concept of a 'perimarine' area. A new system for lithostratigraphic classification of the deposits in the perimarine area is proposed'