Permaculture, according to Daniel Schmachtenberger, is an integrative, holistic design philosophy aimed at creating sustainable and regenerative agricultural and social systems by harmonizing with natural ecosystems. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all elements in a system, leveraging a deep understanding of ecological principles to cultivate environments that are resilient, efficient, and inherently nourishing. Schmachtenberger views permaculture as not merely an agricultural practice but as a comprehensive approach to human habitation and societal infrastructure that prioritizes long-term ecological health, resource efficiency, and community well-being. By mimicking nature’s time-tested patterns and relationships, permaculture seeks to create self-sustaining systems where waste is minimized, energy is optimally utilized, and productivity is continually enhanced, thus fostering a symbiotic relationship between humans and the land.

See also: biosecurity, climate change, collective action, regenerative agriculture, systems thinking