Permaculture as a systematic method was developed by Australians Bill Mollison and David Holmgren and their associates during the 1970s in a series of publications.. The word ‘permaculture’ was coined as a contraction of permanent (sustainable) and agriculture.
Permaculture has since developed a large international following. This “permaculture community” continues to expand on the original ideas, integrating a range of ideas of alternative culture, through a network of publications, permaculture gardens, intentional communities, training programs, and internet forums.
In this way, permaculture has become a form of architecture of nature and ecology as well as an informal institution of alternative social ideals.
Why is Permaculture Important?
Individuals and communities, both in Ireland and throughout the world, face difficult times and an uncertain and troubling future.
Humanity has had a massive impact on the natural world whose ecological functions underpin all of our economy. As well as financial uncertainty, we face the growing depletion of resources, the loss of biodiversity, the threat of climate change and less secure sources of reliable energy with the onset of ‘peak oil’.
By using permaculture principles we can design systems of renewal and abundance to meet these challenges head on.
For over forty years, individuals, communities and organisations have applied these principles to the creation of abundant community gardens, the rehabilitation of farms, recreating rainforests, replanting arid lands, building communities and credit systems as well as robust and productive businesses.
Permaculture Ireland and Northern Ireland believes that permaculture provides an important approach to developing and nurturing sustainable communities, farms and businesses throughout the whole of Ireland both North and South.
We feel that the creative spirit of the people of Ireland can rise to this challenge.
In the words of Maddy Harland, editor of the Permaculture magazine:
“We share a bond beyond race, ethnicity, class, nationality, education, religion… We share a love for the Earth and its people, and our deepest concern for the future. Yes, another world is possible, but only if we believe we can make the change. Choose your strategy, your campaign, your activism, your research, your passion – however humble – and stick to it not for a year or two, but for the rest of your lives. Speak up. Seek the company of like minds, of inspirational people. Treat every day as a miracle. Be here for the long haul.”
Source: Permaculture Ireland and Northern Ireland – A (Very) Short History of Permaculture
