Acta Scientiarum Polonorum
Silvarum Colendarum Ratio et Industria Lignaria

The history of resin tapping in Poland reflects the dynamic development of a traditional forest use practice that played an important economic role, particularly in supplying raw materials to the chemical industry. Natural resin, extracted mainly from Scots pine, was used for producing turpentine, rosin, varnishes, and adhesives. However, the rise of petrochemicals, synthetic substitutes, and increasing labour costs led to the gradual decline and eventual discontinuation of resin tapping by the end of the 20th century. Today, while industrial-scale resin production has ceased, there is growing interest in its artisanal revival. Resin tapping is being re-evaluated for its educational and cultural value. Resin now finds niche applications in cosmetics, natural medicine, art conservation, and historical reenactment. The paper provides a review of scientific studies on resin tapping in Poland, including book publications issued by the leading research institutions dealing with this subject in the country. It explores the potential for limited revitalization of resin tapping in Poland through local, craft-based, and educational initiatives. Although a return to industrial-scale production is unlikely, resin tapping may re-emerge as a practice that supports cultural heritage preservation and sustainable forest use.