Permaculture, is a combination of ‘permanent’ and ‘culture’, also seen as a holistic design system for creating sustainable human habitats.

This approach is not merely about growing plants; it encompasses energy-efficient building design, integrated water resources management, and even community development strategies. With an emphasis on the principles of ecology and the interconnectivity of life, permaculture strives to work with nature, rather than against it, in a self-sustaining manner.

Permaculture in Portugal

Portugal is a country with varied landscape, abundant sunlight, and rich biodiversity, and it offers an ideal environment for the application of permaculture principles. With increasing awareness about the negative impacts of conventional agriculture and the threats of climate change, a growing number of people are turning towards permaculture as a sustainable alternative in Portugal.

The Permaculture Movement in Portugal

Portugal’s journey towards permaculture began in earnest when the country started experiencing increased periods of drought and wildfires, reminding the population of the need for a more sustainable way of living. Here at Pure Portugal the team and many people within the online community, have been keen to investigate, learn and push this movement forward. What has formed from this is valuable resource of sharing knowledge, inspiring action, and fostering a community of like-minded individuals invested in sustainable living.

Here we love to share properties that are ideal for implementing permaculture principles, or in some cases have already had these principles in place by previous owners, and Portugal has seen the growth of workshops and courses to help educate interested people.

In Portugal, permaculture approaches range from creating edible landscapes and organic gardens to developing sustainable off-grid living solutions.

The objective is to create systems that are ecologically sound and economically viable, which provide for their own needs, do not exploit or pollute, and are therefore sustainable in the long term.

One of the key ways this is achieved is through smart water management. Portugal’s climate, particularly in the south, is Mediterranean, with hot dry summers and mild, wet winters. Permaculture designs often include keyline design and swales to capture and hold water in the landscape, reducing water use and maximizing productivity.

Another principle applied in Portugal is the integration of animals into the system. Chickens, goats, and bees are common additions to permaculture systems. They provide a variety of functions, from aiding in pest control and providing fertilizer, to producing food directly in the form of eggs, milk, and honey.

Importance of Permaculture in Portugal

Permaculture is more than a method of farming for Portugal; it is a tool for sustainable living. It offers the people a way to reconnect with nature, live in a healthier and more sustainable manner, and contribute to the mitigation of climate change. Additionally, it is a way to preserve Portugal’s rich biodiversity and natural resources for future generations.

The emphasis on community, learning, and sharing that has come from the Permaculture world echoes the very principles of permaculture itself, the lessons and principles of permaculture offer a path forward, not just for the country, but for a world increasingly in need of sustainable solutions.

We would love to hear your own thoughts and experiences here! Feel free to share and let us know inn the comments!