
Explore
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.
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
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Invitation to the 3rd General Meeting & Conference – EU-PoTaRCh COST Action
We are pleased to invite all members of the EU-PoTaRCh COST Action (CA22155) to take part in the 3rd General Meeting and Conference, which will be held on 17–19 February… read more
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Publications after 2nd General Meeting and Conference
Special Issue with papers presented at the 2nd Conference is now available online Open Access. Use this Link to check out EU-PoTaRCh research 🧐 read more
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3rd General Meeting and Conference – Save the Date
We are more than happy to announce that 3rd General Meeting an Conference will take place 17-19 of February 2026, in Brasov, Romania. This event will include both the Conference and… read more
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Workshop in Rudnik
Report from the Rudnik Workshop From 15–19 of September 2025, participants of the Rudnik Workshop spent five intensive days working together in Serbia. Locations & fieldwork at Rudnik From 15… read more
Explore Our Working Groups


Heritage
Work Group 1


Analytical Characterization
Work Group 2


Archeology
Work Group 3


Environmental History
Work Group 4


Future Perspectives
Work Group 5