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Forest heritage

EU-PoTaRCh COST action connects the past, present, and future of key non-timber forest products in Europe and beyond. Focusing on forest by-products like Potash, Tar, Resin, and Charcoal (PoTaRCh), it highlights their significance in traditional forest use and their role in industrial history. The project also explores related products like tannins and pitches, shedding light on their impact on European heritage.

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Discover Traditional Forest Resources

Potash

A key component in fertilizers and historical production processes, essential in agriculture and chemical industries for centuries.

Tar

A natural product widely used, from wood preservation to shipbuilding, with deep roots in traditional industries.

Resin

A versatile substance valued for medicinal and industrial uses, employed in making medicines, varnishes, and incense.

Charcoal

Vital in early metallurgy and smelting, now mainly used in filtration and grilling.

Read and Watch our News

International Scientific Conference in Belgrade (Oct 30-31) to Feature PoTaRCh Topics

We are pleased to inform you that based on the networking of members of our Action, not only the MoU was reached, but also the organization of International Scientific Conference… read more
EU-PoTaRCh Network Leads Session on Metallurgy, Timber & Charcoal at EAA 2025

Our EU-PoTaRCh network played a key role in the scientific program of the 31st Annual Meeting of the European Association of Archaeologists (EAA), held virtually from Belgrade (September 2-6, 2025).… read more
EU-PoTaRCh Training School: Environmental History of Resin and Charcoal

The EU-PoTaRCh (COST Action – CA22155) Training School brought us closer to the fascinating history and traditions of resin and charcoal production in Lower Austria. Over three days, participants experienced… read more
PoTaRCh related session at World Economic History Congress

Special session was organised by Jakob Starlander and José-Miguel Lana and was held at the WEHC in Lund on the 30th of June. The session discussed uses and management of… read more