When you think about Permaculture and diversity what comes to mind? Probably your first thought is biodiversity right?. The national geographic society defines biodiversity as a term used to describe the enormous variety of life on Earth. The conversation is all about biodiversity at the moment and for good reason. Diversity of plants and animals is crucial to sustaining the eco-systems at the heart of our planet. The balance between apex predators and prey, the protection of pollinators and measures to increase the sustainability of agriculture have never been so important. On our current trajectory ‘half of all species may face extinction by the end of the century’ (source: https://earthjustice.org/).
However, when we are considering Permaculture and its goals and aims, especially in relation to the Permaculture ethics of people care and a fair share maybe we should put on our trusty Permaculture goggles and take another look. An inclusive community is a stronger community. Encouraging social diversity is as important as embracing biodiversity but where do we start? As part of our Permaculture Kids: Permaculture Principles course we are trying to ask the questions and find the answers.
Human diversity is also key to creativity and a vibrant, healthy human society.
Permaculture Association
From able bodied parents to people with physical disabilities and everywhere in between, making our allotment spaces accessible is key to tapping in to the exceptional potential of all of the individuals within our community. Everyone has something to offer and these are the first of many conversations we are having and are encouraging you and your family to actively start and participate in.
Whether you have taken on an allotment, are one of our amazing Permaculture Kids students, recently recognised the importance of self sufficiency, work on a community growing scheme or just really want to know how we can collectively make a difference through carefully considered design we want to know how these videos made you feel, what you learnt and whether you changed your design process as a result. How are you making your spaces accessible? As society and individuals how we could do more?