The term “permaculture” was coined in 1978 by Bill Mollison, an Australian ecologist, and one of his students, David Holmgren. It is a contraction of “permanent agriculture” or “permanent culture” and involves the harmonious integration of landscape and people to provide food, energy, shelter, and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way. The conscious design and maintenance of these productive permaculture ecosystems provides the diversity, stability and resilience of natural ecosystems.
You can apply the principles of permaculture to your life no matter where you choose to hang your hat. Urban permaculture is as relevant as rural permaculture, and by changing the way we look at the mechanics of our lives we can enjoy richer, more bountiful lives while lessening our impact on the planet.
Permaculture – the basics
Permaculture, a beginner’s guide – read Graham Burnett’s online permaculture primer
Essence of Permaculture – free eBook by David Holmgren (pdf)
Examples of permaculture in action
A mobile home permaculture garden by Aranya.
Landmatters co-operative permaculture project in Devon.
An edible roof garden in Reading town centre.
Bungala Ridge Permaculture Gardens is home to Beverly Paine, author, home-educator and permaculture enthusiast.
Permaculture blogs
Permaculture in Brittany – Stuart and Gabrielle live on a three-acre site in Brittany, France. Read their story as it happens.
Permaculture at Chickenshack – the blog of permaculture teacher, facilitator and project manager Steve Wilson Jones.