Permaculture - Creating Productive Ecosystems
Announcement posted by ACS Distance Education 10 Apr 2015
Permaculture is a system of agriculture based on perennial, and self‑perpetuating, multi-use plants and animal species which are useful to man. It stresses both a positive approach and an attitude of cooperation, to the environment and all living things.
The term ‘permaculture’ was first devised in 1978 by Australian ecologist Bill Mollison, and his student David Holmgren.
Permaculture encompasses the establishment of highly productive, stable, and harmonious environments, and is an ethical approach to designing land use, supportive community systems, and economic infrastructures in providing food, ecological habitats and other essentials for human survival. It encompasses the use of appropriate technology, such as energy efficient buildings, recycling, waste water treatment, solar and wind energy and composting toilets.
Permaculture design imitates patterns from nature, and focuses on the way elements are placed in the landscape and inter-relate rather than on individual elements. The key element of the system is the use of low energy and high diversity inputs in the design, whether for a large farm or backyard garden.
Permaculture design is complex - it requires knowledge for successful implementation. An excellent place to gain such knowledge is to enrol in a course such as the newly upgraded and revised ‘Permaculture Systems’ course offered through ACS Distance Education.
Established 36 years ago, ACS is a well respected, independent, ethical provider of online and distance education - with an international profile and course recognition.
This course is aimed at those who want lighten their footprint on the earth, starting in their own backyard or farm. Eight lessons cover the fundamentals of permaculture systems including permaculture principles; natural systems; zone and sector planning, permaculture techniques such as Mandala gardens and forest planting, animals in permaculture, plants in permaculture, and appropriate technologies, and culminates in preparing a plan.
The course uses a down-to-earth, stimulating approach, and includes experiential and problem based learning. Guidance is offered throughout by experienced, dedicated tutors, and administration staff. A must for anyone, amateur or professional, interested in working in this field.
To celebrate Permaculture Day on 3 May, we have a special offer on our two popular permaculture courses- Permaculture Systems and Advanced Permaculture- enter the promotion code PERMACULTURE when you enrol online to receive 10% off the course price. Offer ends 5 May 2015.
http://www.acs.edu.au/courses/advanced-permaculture-143.aspx