permaculture

American  

[pur-muh-kuhl-cher] / ˈpɜr məˌkʌl tʃər /

noun

1. a system of cultivation intended to maintain permanent agriculture or horticulture by relying on renewable resources and a self-sustaining ecosystem.

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permaculture British  

/ ˈpɜːməˌkʌltʃə /

noun

1. the practice of producing food, energy, etc, using ways that do not deplete the earth's natural resources

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Other Word Forms

• permaculturalist noun
• permaculturist noun

Etymology

Origin of permaculture

First recorded in 1975–80; perma(nent) ( def. ) + (agri)culture ( def. )

Example Sentences

Last year, the couple converted their yard into a permaculture farm — an elaborate system of lakes and gardens meant to replicate self-sustaining ecosystems in nature.

From New York Times • Jun. 9, 2023

As a flower farmer who studied permaculture and botany, Stevens sees these suggestions as unscientific advice.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2023

As he began to manage the land, he read about the theory of permaculture - a sustainable way of living that emphasises recycling and reducing impact on the planet.

From BBC • Jan. 1, 2023

In the lexicon of permaculture, comfrey is known as a dynamic accumulator.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 24, 2022

It’s more that the Ranch’s library is practical, filled with books about permaculture, carpentry, animal husbandry, and some about making your own essential oils, natural cleaning supplies, and body products, and other stuff like that.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy