Permaculture is a design science rooted in the observation of natural systems. Coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in the 1970s, the term "permaculture" originally referred to "permanent agriculture" but has since expanded to encompass "permanent culture" -- the design of sustainable human settlements and productive landscapes.

This series will guide you through the core curriculum of the internationally recognized 72-hour Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC), adapted for self-paced online learning.

Module 1: Ethics and Principles

Permaculture is built on three core ethics: 1. Earth Care -- Provision for all life systems to continue and multiply 2. People Care -- Provision for people to access resources necessary for their existence 3. Fair Share -- Setting limits to consumption and redistributing surplus

These ethics are supported by 12 design principles (as articulated by David Holmgren): 1. Observe and Interact 2. Catch and Store Energy 3. Obtain a Yield 4. Apply Self-Regulation and Accept Feedback 5. Use and Value Renewable Resources 6. Produce No Waste 7. Design from Patterns to Details 8. Integrate Rather Than Segregate 9. Use Small and Slow Solutions 10. Use and Value Diversity 11. Use Edges and Value the Marginal 12. Creatively Use and Respond to Change

Module 2: Reading the Landscape

Before designing, we must learn to read the landscape. This module covers site analysis techniques including: - Sector analysis (sun, wind, water, views, wildlife corridors) - Slope analysis and contour mapping - Soil assessment and testing - Climate and microclimate identification - Existing vegetation and ecology survey - Water flow and catchment analysis

Subsequent modules cover earthworks and water harvesting, soil science, food forest design, animal systems, appropriate technology, community design, and the design practicum.

This series is a companion resource for formal PDC courses and should not be considered a substitute for in-person or live-taught certification programs. We recommend completing a recognized PDC course with qualified instructors for full certification.