An MSc "Integrative Ecosocial Design" Gaia University assignment. All of the photographs are mine, and the music is by my godbrother from Bellingham, WA. My photographic profile can be viewed at http://www.DBLfoto.com
Of utmost importance is the following point: activities that are a part of permaculture design, such as community gardening, cob oven building and pond construction, are means that achieve multiple ends. With one single project we can: build community space, beautify space, learn, educate, save income, create income, empower people, make steps towards independence from complex social structures, and do our part to usher in a new society where we live in a mutually beneficial manner with the planet. This 'stacking of functions' that permaculture is inherently designed to do is fulfilling and thorough. When we are intentional in our actions, starting with an ethical foundation and going all the way up to space-saving strategies, these awesome actions seem quotidian. However, it is rare to come across such actions that achieve so much via their inherent value, and this is the truly magical crux of permaculture.