Diachronic approach to practices associated with the use of firewood in Parque Costero del Sur and its surroundings (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina)

Abstract

Background: The processes of change and continuity in the practices associated with the use of firewood by the inhabitants of the Biosphere Reserve Parque Costero del Sur (PCS-acronym in Spanish) and its surroundings are analysed diachronically. Methods: Anthracological, ethnobotany historical and ethnobotanical methodology have been used. Results: In the pre-hispanic period, hunter-gatherer groups used the native species of the talar (coronillo, molle, tala and sombra de toro) and the coast (ceibo and willow), possibly as a source of light, heat, protection, in pottery production and food preparation. Subsequently, the native societies on the frontier continued to use the native species of the talar (tala, molle and sombra de toro) as firewood, with no recorded use of coastal species. Historical documentation reflects the continued use of talar trees as firewood since the colonial period, and even their overexploitation, in addition to the early introduction of exotic species for this purpose. Today, firewood continues to be a key resource in the daily lives of the inhabitants of the PCS for heating and cooking. The use of 28 species was recorded, of which six are native (tala, coronillo, molle, willow, espinillo and brusquilla). Conclusions: The results presented demonstrate the temporal continuity in the use of some native species as firewood with varying degrees of intensity and the incorporation of exotic species since the colonial period. This reflects the flexibility of the settlers in the face of socio-environmental changes, with innovations and transfers of uses from one plant to another that have enriched local practices.