In recent years, Permaculture has gained popularity as a sustainable approach to agriculture and living. But what exactly is Permaculture, and why is it considered beneficial? To find out, I spoke with Caz, a key member of the Hwb Dysgu'r Tir team. Caz first found Permaculture 15 years ago when she was volunteering on a farm, now as a teacher, she is co-leading a two-day introductory workshop with Neil and Dina from Patch of the Planet. Caz will explain what Permaculture is all about and what participants can expect from the upcoming introduction weekend.
Q: Caz, tell us what is Permaculture?
A: "The word Permaculture comes from 'permanent culture' or 'permanent agriculture,' coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in the 1970s in Australia. The idea is that the culture that currently exists creates waste, we aim to use resources in a more cyclical way, creating less waste. Permaculture Design gives you the methods to create these cyclic systems that function really well. Some people might say this is just common sense—for example, using cow poo to feed your vegetable patches— the reality is that most of us live in a very wasteful society"
Ethics of Permaculture; there are three core ethics:
Earth Care: Ensuring the health and sustainability of our planet.
People Care: Prioritising the well-being of people and communities.
Fair Share: Redistributing surplus to reduce waste and ensure everyone has enough.
Q: Why is Permaculture helpful?
A: "Permaculture is beneficial because it offers practical solutions for sustainable living and reduces our environmental impact. Permaculture Design can help us create effective and efficient systems that are beneficial for both the earth and people."
INTRODUCTION TO PERMECULTURE: A TWO DAY COURSE IN TEGRYN, PEMBROKESHIRE
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th September
Who will be running the course
Caz Wyatt's Permaculture Design journey bought her to West Wales in 2011 where she volunteered at Lammas Eco Village and studied with Jasmine Dale. After completing that course and contributing as a volunteer, Caz went on to buy her own land, where she created her smallholding where she now lives amongst her vegetables and sheep.
Neil and Dina Kingsnorth, co-leaders of Patch of the Planet, run a permaculture-designed smallholding and tree nursery in mid-Pembrokeshire. Neil, a certified Permaculture educator, focuses on trees and soil, while Dina is passionate about food growing, nature art, and biodiversity. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the course.
The Weekend
The course will allow you to explore the world of Permaculture, connecting with others who share an interest in sustainable living. You’ll get stuck in with hands-on activities that explore the core principles of Permaculture and discover how to apply them in real world scenarios. We’ll cover foundational concepts and work through practical design processes, including the OSADIMET tool; (Caz's favourite).
This workshop is a great introduction to Permaculture and a perfect stepping stone before committing to a more extensive course. You'll gain valuable skills and knowledge that you can apply to your own gardening and sustainable living projects.
Bring a notebook to jot all your insights and ideas throughout the course. Since lunch isn’t provided, make sure to pack your own. Also, don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes or wellies, appropriate for the field.
You will be able to use this course for CPD,
Where to stay
The workshop will take place over a weekend, offering a great opportunity for a mini-break in beautiful Pembrokeshire. We hope to welcome participants from further afield. While it isn’t a residential course, there is a nearby yurt glamping site with a special discount for workshop attendees. Discounted prices for bookings before the end of July. To book your stay and secure your spot in the workshop, please visit our Eventbrite page. If this yurt option isn't ideal for you, then get in touch, we may well be able to help you find an affordable place locally.
The Cost
We offer tickets from £120 each, asking you to pay what you can afford from the tiered options. To read more, see the booking page.
Take a look at the courses Hwb Dysgu'r Tir have coming up!
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