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How long has the Holocene Epoch lasted?

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Cenozoic migration routes — Cenozoic Era Principal Cenozoic faunal migration routes and barriers.

The Holocene Epoch has lasted for approximately 11,700 years.12

It is the most recent interval of geologic time and represents the current interglacial period of the Quaternary Period. While some sources may colloquially refer to it as beginning 10,000 years ago, the formal scientific consensus identifies its start at approximately 11,700 years ago, following the abrupt termination of the Pleistocene Epoch.132

The Holocene serves as the primary chronological framework for human history, encompassing the development of early civilizations and the subsequent rise of humanity's influence on the planet's ecological systems. Some scientists have proposed that the later part of this period should be classified as the Anthropocene Epoch to reflect the profound impact of human activity on Earth's climate and environment, though the Holocene remains the standard designation.12