Investigates the possibilities of identifying the origins of, and classifying, modern and prehistoric sand samples from coastal dune environments, based on a study of their phytolith content. The classification has made it easier to distinguish between anthropogenic and nonanthropogenic levels in ancient sand dunes. Areas of ancient human activity are shown to be characterized by phytolith concentrations larger by orders of magnitude than those that occur naturally. Also investigated were the extent of introduction of cut peat, plant and animal waste, and possible differences in the character of grazing or pasture in the dune systems.