As far back as 1929, “permanent agriculture” has been described as
the planting of fruiting trees & crops i a natural way, to stabilize watersheds and restore soil health.
With 12 core principles, permaculture is a philosophy for regenerating the Earth’s natural systems, so that we can continue to receive her abundance of resources.
Care of the Earth = Care of the People
What exactly is permaculture?
The 12 Principles of Permaculture
According to David Holmgren’s book Permaculture: Principles and Pathways Beyond Sustainability
Observe and interact
We first observe how Mother Nature operates in your specific area, and learn from her in order to get the best results possible.
Catch and store energy
We store rainwater in tanks and basins, preserve food to be eaten year-round, design houses for natural heating & cooling, and much more.
Obtain a yield
Every piece of the permaculture puzzle provides a measurable return on your investment, from food to energy and beyond.
Apply self-regulation and accept feedback
We are but humble students in the face of nature, and retaining a learner’s mindset allows us to continually improve.
Use & value renewable resources and services
Elements, animals, and more—each plays a valuable role in turning the gears of a self-sustaining permaculture system.
Produce no waste
From composting kitchen scraps to diverting grey water, each step in the system produces an output that can be reused elsewhere.
Design from patterns to details
We identify patterns that show us how to improve, and instill those lessons all the way down into the finer details.
Integrate, rather than segregate
Systems are more efficient when their parts work together as a whole, so integration is critical.
Use small and slow solutions
Nature rarely works in sudden, catastrophic changes. The vast majority of results come by playing the Tortoise’s game.
Use and value diversity
Diversity reduces vulnerability to a variety of threats and takes advantage of the unique nature of the environment in which it resides.
Use edges and value the marginal
The interface between things is where the most interesting events take place. These are often the most valuable, diverse and productive elements in the system.
Creatively use and respond to change
We can have a positive impact on inevitable change by carefully observing and then intervening at the right time.