As the costs of petroleum increase, many people are contemplating the long-term sustainability of our way of life. Are you interested in learning how to create a sustainable world? Permaculture — a combination of the words “permanent” and “culture”— is an exploration of how humans can make choices that support their lives while respecting the rights of all beings to meet their needs to exist indefinitely on this planet. 

The concept, which was developed in the mid-’70s by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, has actually been practiced by indigenous cultures all over the world for countless generations. The prime directive of permaculture states, “The only ethical decision is to take responsibility for our own existence and that of our children.”   Permaculture has evolved as a response to industrial systems that destroy the earth’s ecosystems.

Permaculture presents a framework for intentional design, mimicking the patterns and relationships found in nature. The forest is seen as a model for a resilient and self-maintaining system that provides for all of its own needs. The objective of permaculture is to facilitate a whole systems perspective on various aspects of our lives, encouraging care for the earth and its inhabitants as a diverse community.

Recently, food costs have been rising all around the world. We are beginning to feel the impacts of our dependence on non-renewables financially as well as environmentally. It is possible to cultivate our own food all year round.  Permaculture offers strategies and techniques for low-input gardening utilizing resources found on site. 

The costs of housing and other basic needs are also on the rise. Community building strategies, development of local economics and responsible use of local materials all help to create a crucial buffer against the instability of globalization.

Permaculture is individual-, site- and resource-specific and can be applied anywhere in the world. Both landscapes and lifestyles can embody permaculture practices. Each person’s design is reflective of how he or she meets his or her needs using the resources available. We use various methods to identify elements in our design and place them in relationships that enhance productivity.  Through keen observation, we can make informed choices that make the most of our valuable time and energy.

Two permaculture design certification courses will be offered this fall on Vashon Island. For more information, contact me at (360) 789-0799 or queenbee@herbnwisdom.com. For more information, see www.herbnwisdom.com.

— Marisha Auerbach is a Vashon Island resident who teaches about permaculture.