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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.

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EU-PoTaRCh session of the EAA in Athens “Resonants Pasts”

Session #248 ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY OF WOODLANDS – HUMAN-TREE INTERACTION THROUGH TIME Theme: 5. Changing worlds and environments in the past, present and future Author: Oliver Nelle (Germany) – Tree-ring… read more
4th Training School EU‑Potarch in Möhkö, Finland

The 4th EU‑Potarch Training School in Möhkö has come to an end, concluding several inspiring days dedicated to Finland’s PoTaRCh heritage — from traditional charcoal burning and tar production to… read more
STSM at Historic England

Below you can read a few words from Aze Peeters which recently completed my Short-Term Scientific Mission at Historic England (Fort Cumberland, Portsmouth), hosted by Dr. Zoe Hazell. „During the… read more
4th Training School of EU-PoTaRCh, Möhkö Ironwork’s village, Finland

Training school will take place form 1st to 3rd September 2026 Representatives of local organizers: Timo Särkkä & Maare Paloheimo (University of Jyväskylä), Heidi Koponen, Museum curator (Ilomantsi Museum Foundation) Local Organiser: Möhkö Ironworks… read more