Permaculture is built upon twelve core principles that provide a practical framework for designing sustainable and regenerative systems. These principles, developed by David Holmgren, help guide decision-making to work with nature, rather than against it.
1. Observe and Interact
By taking the time to observe natural patterns and human interactions, we can develop solutions that fit harmoniously within a given environment.
Example: Watching how water moves through a landscape before designing irrigation systems.
2. Catch and Store Energy
Harness resources when they are abundant and use them efficiently.
Example: Installing solar panels or rainwater catchment systems to store energy for later use.
3. Obtain a Yield
Design systems that provide a measurable benefit, ensuring that our efforts lead to tangible results.
Example: Growing food in a home garden to reduce reliance on external food sources.
4. Apply Self-regulation and Accept Feedback
Adapt and improve by assessing what works and what doesn’t.
Example: Adjusting planting techniques based on soil health observations.
5. Use and Value Renewable Resources and Services
Prioritize natural and renewable resources over nonrenewable ones.
Example: Using compost instead of synthetic fertilizers.
6. Produce No Waste
Design systems where everything has a use and nothing is wasted.
Example: Repurposing kitchen scraps into compost for soil enrichment.
7. Design from Patterns to Details
Identify overarching patterns in nature and society before working out specific design elements.
Example: Designing a food forest by mimicking natural woodland ecosystems.
8. Integrate Rather Than Segregate
Foster connections between elements to create mutually beneficial relationships.
Example: Intercropping plants to improve soil fertility and pest resistance.
9. Use Small and Slow Solutions
Work with nature at a manageable scale, allowing for steady and sustainable progress.
Example: Starting with a small garden before expanding into larger food production systems.
10. Use and Value Diversity
Encourage biodiversity to increase resilience and productivity.
Example: Planting a variety of crops to prevent monoculture failures.
11. Use Edges and Value the Marginal
Recognize that the most productive and diverse spaces often exist at the edges.
Example: Using pond edges or hedgerows for increased biodiversity.
12. Creatively Use and Respond to Change
Be adaptable and proactive in response to environmental or societal shifts.
Example: Adjusting planting schedules due to changing weather patterns.
At World Tree Permaculture, these principles shape everything we do—from regenerative agriculture and food security programs to community-based economic development. By embracing these guiding concepts, we create systems that benefit both people and the planet.
