Permaculture combines three key aspects:
1. an ethical framework
2. understandings of how nature works, and
3. a design approach
This unique combination is then used to support the creation of sustainable, agriculturally productive, non-polluting and healthy settlements. In many places this means adapting our existing settlements. In other cases it can mean starting from scratch. Both offer interesting challenges and opportunities.
At Whistlewood that means designing not only our land, but also the way our organisation works and to ensure that being involved with Whistlewood is a rewarding experience for everyone, and that Whistlewood is a truly community society.
Several of our members have qualifications in Permaculture Design and has used their knowledge across a variety of areas to ensure that Whistlewood will work now and in the long term. Sarah, holder of a Diploma in Applied Permaculture Design, says “I was acutely aware when leading the design team for the site, and inputting into the organisational structure, that we are designing not just for now, but to offer opportunities for our children and grandchildren, who will face very different challenges from those of our generation.”
When you attend the site you may notice that we try and do things in a sustainable way wherever possible, and we would ask that you help in this endeavour. This includes:
- Our straw bale and timber roundhouse
- Our compost loos
- Growing without chemicals, from trees to food
- Sustainable building materials
- Natural play areas
- Limiting waste, eg by using real crockery, not disposable
- Composting food and green waste
- Water harvesting (we are off-grid)
- Solar lighting
- Encouraging and conserving wildlife
- And much more!
Whistlewood is a member of the Permaculture Association.
The best way to learn more is to attend an Introduction to Permaculture Course, or gain the Permaculture Design Certificate. Or come and volunteer.