The core ethics of permaculture include care of both the earth and of people, also referred to as ecological and social permaculture. At its core, social permaculture recognizes the inherent value of diversity and interdependence. Just as a healthy ecosystem thrives on the diversity of species and their symbiotic relationships, a vibrant society benefits from diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences of its members.
Social Permaculture is a holistic approach that applies the principles of ecological permaculture to human interactions and community dynamics. It aims to cultivate sustainable, harmonious, and regenerative social systems by emphasizing principles such as diversity, cooperation, observation, and resource mindfulness. Social permaculture seeks to create resilient and inclusive communities that thrive through collaboration, empathy, and a deep connection to both people and the environment.
Over the past 5 years, Sunrise Waldorf School has extensively developed their school gardens, using ecological principles of permaculture. One key permaculture principle is to Observe and Interact. Student gardeners regularly “Observe and Interact” with the garden ecosystem. This hands-on engagement helps them understand and respond to the garden’s changing needs, fostering a deeper connection to nature.
A mutually supportive collaboration between the Sunrise Waldorf School and Boots ‘n Roots Permaculture Farm this year provides a great example of the principle of “Share the Abundance.” Sunrise wanted to get an earlier start on plant starts in the spring but had not yet built a greenhouse. Farmer Kelly shared her ample greenhouse space in Glenora to help the school start tomatoes, cucumbers and other seedlings which were both planted in the school garden and sold at the Sunrise farmstand to support the school garden; during the summer when the school farmstand was closed she sold flowers and produce from the school garden at the Duncan Farmers Market, with the proceeds being shared–a fruitful community partnership!