WHAT IS PERMACULTURE?
Permaculture originated in Australia, with the work of the late Bill Mollison and David Holmgren. The name was originally formed by a contraction of the words 'permanent' and 'agriculture.' Permaculture principles, ethics, design tools and techniques are now used extensively worldwide and so a variety of explanations, descriptions and definitions have emerged. Here are some examples:
Bill Mollison:
The overall aim of Permaculture design is to produce an efficient, low maintenance, productive integration of plants, animals, structures and man: with the ultimate result of on-site stability and food self-sufficiency in the smallest practical area. The aim is also to plan for crafts and other products in larger areas that yield a trade, or commercial potential for clients, again as diverse products resources. The design should aim for a total, secure, long term integration of all elements; stability and diversity are the key notes. Conservation of soil, water and energy are central issues. The system combines rational landscape design, organic gardening methods and alternative energy systems into a unified design, encompassing many trades, skills and disciplines.
David Holmgren:
Consciously designed landscapes which mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature, while yielding an abundance of food, fibre, and energy for provision of local needs. People, their buildings and the way in which they organise themselves are central to Permaculture. Thus the Permaculture vision of permanent or sustainable agriculture has evolved to one of permanent or sustainable CULTURE.
Peter Bane:
Permaculture is an ethical design system for creating human environments that are ecologically sound and economically viable. Permaculture systems provide for their own needs, do not exploit or pollute and are therefore sustainable.
Permaculture Association (GB):
Permaculture is a design process. It helps us to design intelligent systems which meet human needs whilst enhancing biodiversity, reducing our impact on the planet and creating a fairer world for us all. People across the world are transforming their communities with Permaculture.
Bill Mollison:
The overall aim of Permaculture design is to produce an efficient, low maintenance, productive integration of plants, animals, structures and man: with the ultimate result of on-site stability and food self-sufficiency in the smallest practical area. The aim is also to plan for crafts and other products in larger areas that yield a trade, or commercial potential for clients, again as diverse products resources. The design should aim for a total, secure, long term integration of all elements; stability and diversity are the key notes. Conservation of soil, water and energy are central issues. The system combines rational landscape design, organic gardening methods and alternative energy systems into a unified design, encompassing many trades, skills and disciplines.
David Holmgren:
Consciously designed landscapes which mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature, while yielding an abundance of food, fibre, and energy for provision of local needs. People, their buildings and the way in which they organise themselves are central to Permaculture. Thus the Permaculture vision of permanent or sustainable agriculture has evolved to one of permanent or sustainable CULTURE.
Peter Bane:
Permaculture is an ethical design system for creating human environments that are ecologically sound and economically viable. Permaculture systems provide for their own needs, do not exploit or pollute and are therefore sustainable.
Permaculture Association (GB):
Permaculture is a design process. It helps us to design intelligent systems which meet human needs whilst enhancing biodiversity, reducing our impact on the planet and creating a fairer world for us all. People across the world are transforming their communities with Permaculture.