Last of Menorca’s Charcoal Makers Face Extinction

Vicent Pons and Sebastià Ametller are the last two traditional charcoal makers on the Balearic island of Menorca, practicing a craft that also helps prevent wildfires. For over forty years, Pons has converted wood into high-quality charcoal, continuing even in retirement because of the crucial role the practice plays in forest management.

The pair build “sitjas”, stone and earth structures, to slowly cook wood gathered from across the island, a process requiring extensive knowledge of the local “marines” ecosystems. Ametller took up the work after a period of unemployment, recognizing the skill was in danger of disappearing.

While demand for their charcoal is high, particularly from restaurants, production is limited by the labor-intensive nature of the work. Despite the challenges, Ametller is hesitant to modernize, believing the traditional methods are vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the island.

The Balearic Institute of Nature has partnered with Pons and Ametller to showcase their craft, including educational activities for schoolchildren and a documentary film. The future of the profession remains uncertain as Ametller anticipates difficulty finding an apprentice.