How Does Permaculture Promote The Use Of Local Resources?

“I recently moved to a small rural town in New Zealand and started dabbling in permaculture with the hopes of living more sustainably. I’ve read that using local resources is a big part of permaculture, but I’m a bit unclear on what that really means and why it’s so important. Can you explain how permaculture promotes the use of local resources? Also, any tips on how I should approach this with what little resources we have here would be great!” Thanks, Patricia, Wairarapa, New Zealand.

What Does “Using Local Resources” Really Mean in Permaculture?

When we talk about “using local resources” in permaculture, we’re looking at leveraging what’s naturally available around us to create a sustainable, self-sufficient system. Instead of relying on imported materials, chemicals, or energy, the idea is to use what the land already provides. This could be anything from local plants and animals to natural materials, water, and even human resources like community knowledge and skills.

Think of it like making the most of what you’ve got right there in your backyard. This approach not only reduces your environmental footprint but also helps you build a stronger connection with your surrounding environment. And let’s be honest, it’s usually much kinder to the wallet, too!

Why Is Promoting the Use of Local Resources So Important?

Environmental Stewardship

One of the biggest reasons permaculture emphasizes local resources is to reduce the environmental impact associated with sourcing, transporting, and using external resources. Every time we import something, whether it’s seeds from halfway across the world or chemical fertilizers from a factory, we’re contributing to pollution, carbon emissions, and resource depletion.

Using local resources means you’re working within the natural limits of your environment. You’re not introducing foreign elements that could disrupt the local ecosystem. Instead, you’re enhancing what’s already there in a way that promotes biodiversity and ecological balance.

Building Resilience

Patricia, picture a storm knocking out power or deliveries to your little town—if you’re reliant on external resources, you’re stuck, right? But if you’ve tapped into local resources, you’re barely affected. Resilience is all about being self-sufficient enough to withstand disruptions. By using what’s available locally, you’re less dependent on outside goods, which can help you weather any storm, both literally and figuratively.

Economic Sustainability

On a personal level, using local resources is more economically sustainable. Whether you’re gathering materials to build a garden bed or producing your own compost, you’re cutting down on costs. Instead of buying expensive inputs, you’re turning to what’s freely or cheaply available around you.

On a broader scale, supporting local resources strengthens the local economy. By frequenting local markets, hiring local labor, and exchanging skills with neighbors, you’re putting money back into your community, which benefits everyone.

How Permaculture Encourages the Use of Local Resources

Design with Nature

Permaculture design is all about understanding and working with the natural characteristics of your land. For example, if your property gets a lot of sun, it’s a perfect spot for sun-loving plants and solar panels. If it’s naturally wet, consider a little pond for irrigation or aquaculture.

Understanding what your land offers and then designing your garden or farm to utilize those natural strengths is a core permaculture principle. Think of it as partnering with nature rather than fighting against it.

Use Locally Adapted Species

Ditch the temptation to bring in exotic plants that require lots of extra care and resources to thrive. Instead, focus on native or locally adapted species that are used to your region’s climate and soil. These plants are already well-suited to the local conditions, so they require fewer inputs like water and fertilizers. Plus, they’re often vital to supporting local wildlife.

In Wairarapa, Patricia, you might want to look into kanuka or manuka trees, which are native to New Zealand and do wonders for the local ecology. These trees thrive without much intervention and provide excellent shelter and soil health benefits.

Closed-Loop Systems

Permaculture loves the idea of a closed-loop system where waste is minimized, and by-products are repurposed. For example, composting kitchen scraps or using greywater (recycled water from sinks and showers) for irrigation are fantastic ways to recycle what you have.

The idea here is to look at everything as a potential resource. Instead of seeing waste, you’re seeing an opportunity to feed it back into your system. Even fallen leaves can become mulch, creating a self-sustaining cycle right in your backyard.

Creative Strategies to Maximize Local Resources

Forage and Harvest Wild Foods

There’s a wealth of wild foods and herbs that are totally underutilized. If you take a walk around your local area, chances are you’ll find edible plants, fruits, and even mushrooms just waiting to be foraged. Patricia, given New Zealand’s rich biodiversity, there could be opportunities right at your doorstep! Plus, foraging is a fun way to become more in tune with your local landscape.

Of course, make sure you’re foraging responsibly—take only what you need and leave enough behind to ensure the plants can regenerate.

Natural Building Materials

Consider using natural materials available locally for your garden structures. Whether you’re building a chicken coop or raised garden beds, materials like wood, stone, or bamboo (if it’s available nearby) are often both sustainable and cost-effective. And structures made from natural materials often blend more harmoniously into the landscape.

During my last project, I realized I didn’t need expensive lumber—downed branches and locally sourced logs worked just fine (a little elbow grease, and mess, but worth it!) for building a rustic fence. Sometimes, Mother Nature really does provide all we need, and she’s quite the artist, too!

Preserve & Process Your Own Food

Once you’ve tapped into what’s locally abundant, think about preserving that bounty to make it last. Canning, fermenting, drying, and freezing are great preservation methods. In a region like Wairarapa, which is known for its agriculture, you might get great deals on bulk fruits or vegetables—why not prepare your own jam or pickles?

Addressing Common Challenges with Local Resources

What If Local Resources Are Limited?

You might find yourself concerned that your area doesn’t have all the resources you need, but take heart—most places have more to offer than is immediately obvious. Start by exploring every nook and cranny of your property; sometimes, a small patch of nettles or a random bamboo grove can be surprisingly useful. Also, reach out to your community! Local knowledge and skills are often some of the best “resources” around.

Patricia, if your New Zealand locale seems a bit sparse, try joining local permaculture or gardening groups. These networks are valuable not only for knowledge but also for trading seeds, plants, and materials.

Dealing with Resistance to Using Local Resources

Sometimes, even with the best intentions, you might encounter skepticism or resistance to using local resources, whether from family members or neighbors. One way to overcome this is through demonstration. When you put these principles into action and they see the results—like lush gardens or cost savings—they might just change their tune.

Another approach is to start small. If you’re trying to get the family on board with composting or rainwater harvesting, begin with a manageable project. Once they see how easy and beneficial it is, they’ll probably be more supportive of bigger ideas.

Practical Tips for Getting Started with Local Resources

Start with What You Have

You don’t have to overhaul your garden or lifestyle overnight. Start with what’s already available. Got some leftover scraps? That’s a compost pile in the making! Plenty of rocks lying around? Build a little stone border for your herb garden. Even small steps can make a big impact over time.

Create a Resource Map

Mapping out the natural resources on your property and in your local area can be incredibly helpful. Consider factors like sunlight, water flow, and existing plant and animal life. Don’t forget human resources too—local artisans, experienced farmers, or even a neighbor with a good set of tools can be great assets.

Patricia, this might be a good way to kickstart your permaculture journey in your new home. Walk around, take notes, and start mapping out where resources are naturally occurring. It might surprise you how much your local environment has to offer once you start paying attention!

Build Relationships with Your Community

Patricia, I can’t stress enough how valuable local connections can be. Engage with other gardeners, farmers, and local businesses; they often have resources, experience, and advice that can help you at every step of the way. Plus, you may find opportunities to barter or trade, further reducing your need for external resources.

Secondhand Isn’t Second-Rate

If you do need something, consider secondhand options. Old tools, reclaimed wood, or even used pots and planters can be perfect for your needs without costing a fortune or causing additional environmental stress. Scour garages, estate sales, or local community boards—you may find exactly what you need for a fraction of the price and impact.

Advanced Insights for the Hardcore Permies

Consider Regenerative Resources

If your goal is to make your system truly sustainable, think about resources you can regenerate on your property. For example, growing your own mulch materials like comfrey or bamboo can create an endless cycle that feeds back into your system. Not only does this save money, but you’re continuously replenishing your resources without external inputs.

Stacking Functions

If you really want to geek out on permaculture, start thinking about how you can stack functions—or, how a single resource can serve multiple purposes. Take that rainwater collection system—sure, it can water your garden, but why not also use that water to cool down your greenhouse on a hot day, or to rinse off vegetables before bringing them inside?

The Art of Observation

Advanced permaculture practitioners often stress the importance of observation. Spend time just sitting and watching how nature interacts with your garden. Notice what’s thriving and what’s struggling. The more you understand your specific environment, the better you can tap into the right resources and tweak your system for efficiency.

Final Thoughts…

Patricia, thanks a bunch for sending in your question! It really speaks to the heart of what makes permaculture both exciting and meaningful. Remember, the key to using local resources effectively in permaculture is to observe, adapt, and make the most of what’s naturally abundant around you. Start small, keep it simple, and trust that nature has a way of providing exactly what you need, if you just give it a chance to shine. Here’s to many rewarding, resourceful seasons ahead in beautiful Wairarapa!