Permaculture Principle 5: Use & Value Renewable Resources & Services
Nature's Bounty: Embracing Renewables for a Thriving Life
David Holmgren, co-creator of permaculture, reminds us: "Make the best use of nature's abundance to reduce our consumptive behaviour and dependence on non-renewable resources." This principle, Use and Value Renewable Resources & Services, isn't about deprivation or living off the grid (although, kudos to those who do!). It's a philosophy that encourages us to see our world through a lens of abundance, recognising the vast potential of natural resources and ecological services that surround us.
Think of the humble horse – the icon for this principle. It's a renewable service (providing transportation and plowing) and a renewable resource (potentially providing food). It embodies the core message – prioritise non-consumptive uses and embrace the inherent power of nature's cycles. But how do we translate this into everyday life in a world dominated by fossil fuels and convenience culture? The answer lies in creative thinking and a willingness to see beyond the obvious.
How to Value the Outside
Harness the Power of the Sun: Think beyond solar panels on your house. How about a small solar phone charger or strategically placed skylight. Sun-drying laundry, utilising natural light during the day, and strategically planting shade trees for summer cooling are all examples of tapping into nature's free energy source. Imagine your home becoming a mini solar oasis, reducing reliance on the grid and shrinking your long term expenses.
Embrace the Water Cycle: Rainwater harvesting isn't just for big properties. Invest in a simple rainwater tank for every surface that can catch water, even use a bucket under your downpipe. This precious resource can be used for watering your garden, washing your car, or flushing toilets. By collecting rainwater, you're not just saving money, you're also reducing the strain on municipal water
supplies and learning to work with, not against, natural water cycles. There are lots of answers that go beyond installing yet another dam. If you creatively think about the long term impacts for your property and the community (think win-win).
Composting Magic: Food scraps and yard waste are nature's way of returning nutrients to the earth. Instead of sending them to landfill, embrace the power of composting! This transforms waste into nutrient-rich gold for your garden. Think of it as a closed-loop system – your kitchen scraps become food for your plants, which in turn provide you with fresh, healthy produce. It's a beautiful cycle of resource recovery and a testament to nature's inherent regenerative power. It does not have to be complicated. Something as simple as a bottomless container dug into your garden bed which you fill then relocate is better than nothing at all.
Home is Where the Renewal Happens
The Clothesline Comeback: Ditch the dryer and rediscover the joy of the clothesline! Fresh air and sunshine are natural disinfectants, leaving your clothes smelling great and reducing your reliance on energy-guzzling machines (it’s one of the biggest power sucks in a home!). Those with indoor combustion fires can bring back the Victorian era with a ceiling clothes hoist near your fire! Plus, hanging laundry becomes a mindful practice, allowing you to connect with the rhythm of the day and appreciate the power of the sun.
The Sharing Economy: Borrowing, lending, and bartering within your community are fantastic ways totap into renewable resources – human skills and knowledge! Need a drill for a weekend project? See if your neighbour has one you can borrow. Got a knack for fixing bicycles? Offer your skills in exchange for a home-cooked meal. This fosters a sense of community, reduces reliance on consumerism, and celebrates the diverse talents within your community.
The Power of Grey Water: Grey water – the gently used water from your shower, bath, or laundry – can be a valuable resource for watering your garden. Invest in a grey water diversion system(following local regulations) and channel this water towards your thirsty plants. It's a clever way to extend the life of a precious resource and create a more sustainable home.
Remember, using renewable resources isn't just about saving money or reducing your waste in your life (although those are pretty awesome side effects!). It's about fostering a deeper connection with nature, appreciating its inherent generosity, and finding innovative ways to live in harmony with the natural world.
So, take a moment to step outside and observe the abundance around you. Can you harness the power of the sun for your morning coffee? Is there a skill you can share within your community? How can you work with natural cycles to create a more resilient and resourceful life? The answers are waiting to be discovered, hidden in plain sight. What creative ways will you use to embrace renewable resources and services in your life?
Come back next month to discover Principle 6 - Produce No Waste. S
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