Final answer:
Archaeology is the branch of anthropology that studies human cultures through their material remains and environmental data, providing insight into past societies and their relationship with their surroundings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The branch of anthropology that studies human cultures through material remains and environmental data is known as archaeology. This field relies heavily on the excavation and analysis of artifacts, ecofacts, and other cultural and biological remains. Archaeologists interpret these findings to understand the technologies, social practices, and ideas of ancient peoples. They also explore how environmental and historical conditions have produced a diversity of human cultures. In doing so, archaeological studies contribute valuable data that enrich our understanding of humanity's past and present cultures as well as our relationship with the environment.