Permaculture is an approach to designing human settlements and agricultural systems that mimic the relationships found in natural ecologies, often using patterns that occur in nature to maximise effect and minimise work.

It aims to create stable and productive systems that provide for human needs, harmoniously integrating the land with its’ inhabitants

Did you know -  the word 'permaculture' is a contraction of permanent agriculture and permanent culture.

On one level Permaculture deals with plants, animals, buildings and infastructures (water, energy, communications.) However, permaculture is not about these elements themselves, but rather about the relationships we can create between them by the way we place them in the landscape.

The aim is to create systems that are ecologically sound and economically viable, which provide for their own needs, do not exploit or pollute and are sustainable in the long term.

Permaculture uses the inherent qualities of plants and animals combined with the natural characteristics of landscsapes and structures to produce a life supporting system for city and country, using the smallest practical area. In brief, it is a philososphy of working with, rather than against nature.

Do it yourself

It is possible to start a system of growing food in a harmonious, sustainable way in your own garden, one that keeps producing food for years to come.

To find out more about permaculture and how to get involved in Brighton check the Brighton Permaculture Trust. Here at BPEC we also have some fantasitc books on permaculture in our library, so simply search permaculture, or come in and have a look.