Welcome
Read on to learn more about permaculture, sustainability and what I do.
Rewilding On A Range of Scales
When we talk about rewilding, we are often talking about doing so on a landscape scale – over broad areas. Large scale conservation, ecosystem restoration and rewildling are certainly important. But it is also important to consider smaller scale rewilding schemes on individual properties, and even in individual gardens. I’ve had a very busy startContinue reading “Rewilding On A Range of Scales”
Case Study: Child-Friendly Garden Design
This design was for a small garden in southern England, for a client who not only has her own children but also works as a childminder. The garden, therefore, needed to be rationalised and laid out better, so that it would work well for the family themselves, their chickens, their dog, and for all theContinue reading “Case Study: Child-Friendly Garden Design”
Water Conservation in Garden Design
I have worked on a number of designs for dryland regions and arid climates. And of course, in such design work, water conservation is key. But no matter where you live, it is important to think about water conservation in garden design. It is important to consider both landscape and the build environment when consideringContinue reading “Water Conservation in Garden Design”
Case Study: Philippines Permaculture Plan
This concept design, which I completed late last year, outlines a holistic plan for a small farm on the island of Guimaras, in the Philippines. The plan will bring together work already completed on the property, to create a naturally harmonious ecosystem which meets human needs while nurturing the environment and boosting biodiversity on theContinue reading “Case Study: Philippines Permaculture Plan”
Creating a Sustainable, Permaculture Home
If you think about permaculture and sustainability, you may well picture a rural idyll, with a large garden or area of land where an abundance of food is grown. This is, indeed, one type of sustainable, permaculture home. But such homes come in many shapes, forms and sizes – they can be found all overContinue reading “Creating a Sustainable, Permaculture Home”
Become a More Sustainable Gardener in 2022
As a garden designer, I have been heartened to see so many people embracing sustainable organic gardening over the past couple of years. But even those who set out with the best intentions could still do more to make sure they are doing the right thing for people and planet in their gardens. Here areContinue reading “Become a More Sustainable Gardener in 2022”
Happy New Year!
Hello all! I hope everyone is enjoying a good start to 2022. I am now back at work and refreshed after a break. We had a sustainable Christmas at home with family and then a few days away up north staying in a remote cottage in Assynt, further up north here in Scotland, to getContinue reading “Happy New Year!”
Merry Christmas!
I am going to be finishing up with some projects over the next couple of days, and will then be off work between the 24th and the 3rd as we enjoy spending time with guests, relaxing, and spending time in the garden and on our barn conversion project, with a few days away in aContinue reading “Merry Christmas!”
Opt Out of Christmas Excess – Take a DIY Approach
It might be tempting to over-buy at any time, but the temptation can be particularly strong for some around the holidays – especially where it comes to food. While many may buy mince pies, Christmas cakes, cookies and other treats in abundance from the supermarket shelves, those trying to live in a more sustainable wayContinue reading “Opt Out of Christmas Excess – Take a DIY Approach”
In For Christmas (More or Less)
Well, it has been a busy weekend, but we have now managed to set up our bedroom ready to sleep there for the first time! We’ve been working on our renovations for years – mostly doing the work ourselves – on weekends and when we can around our full time jobs. We are still farContinue reading “In For Christmas (More or Less)”
Case Study: Oregon Permaculture Garden Design
This overview concept design is for a garden in the Pacific Northwest, around Eugene, Oregon. The garden is towards the south of the Willamette Valley, between the Coastal Range and the West Cascades, in zone 8b. The client was looking for a design that would allow them to grow as much food as possible, withContinue reading “Case Study: Oregon Permaculture Garden Design”
Embracing Optimism: Looking at the Bright Side in Life
As the holidays approach, many people may be looking forward to spending time with loved ones. But for those who cannot have the festive season they desire may be feeling a little down in the dumps. Cliches like ‘every cloud has a silver lining’ can give little cheer to those who are in a farContinue reading “Embracing Optimism: Looking at the Bright Side in Life”
Lawn Looking Bad Over Winter?
Are you used to your lawn turning into a muddy mess over the winter months? Fed up of bare patches and weeds in spring? There is a simple solution – get rid of that lawn and replace it with a more eco-friendly, vibrant and biodiverse planting scheme that looks good year round. Lawn care isContinue reading “Lawn Looking Bad Over Winter?”
Don’t Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today
We can all sometimes be guilty of procrastination. We can often have the very best of intentions to do something ‘tomorrow’. But that ‘tomorrow’ just may not come. In gardening, and in sustainability in general, putting things off can often mean that we fall short, in spite of our best intentions. I often hear peopleContinue reading “Don’t Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today”
Christmas Crackers
One thing I really dislike about Christmas are the cheap Christmas crackers that people buy which are made from plastic-coated papers, nylon ribbons and other non-recyclable elements, and which come with tacky plastic gifts, paper hats and cheesy jokes inside. Many people love to have Christmas crackers on their Christmas tables, and for many, ChristmasContinue reading “Christmas Crackers”
Bare Root Planting – Tips and Advice
Over the dormant period, many of you may well be planting bare root trees, shrubs or herbaceous perennials. I myself am awaiting a delivery from the Agroforestry Research Trust with some additions for my forest garden. Purchasing bare root specimens, rather than pot grown ones can be a more affordable way to purchase new plantsContinue reading “Bare Root Planting – Tips and Advice”
Upcycled Furniture For Our Barn Conversion
Yesterday I spent some time sanding back an old chest of drawers for our new bedroom in the barn conversion or steading conversion that we are working on. This was already second hand when a good friend passed it on to us when we were in need of something to put clothes in a numberContinue reading “Upcycled Furniture For Our Barn Conversion”
Case Study – Slope Retention & Landslip Repair
This is a case study which involved the repair of a roadside slope on the edge of a property in Taiwan. On the edge of an existing fruit plantation where an agroforestry approach is newly being taken, there is this slope of 15-17% (approximately 25 x 90m) leading down to a local road. In thisContinue reading “Case Study – Slope Retention & Landslip Repair”
Coping With Slope: Permaculture Ideas Can Help
Tomorrow, I will share a small case study which shows a solution for a steep slope in a tropical climate. More on that tomorrow. But today, I thought I would share some of the key solutions permaculture offers to deal with sloping sites. Where slopes are not so extreme, and where the conditions are suitable,Continue reading “Coping With Slope: Permaculture Ideas Can Help”
Sustainable Christmas Tree Options
If you are thinking about getting a Christmas tree this year, you might be wondering which option would be the most sustainable choice. When it comes to Christmas trees, there are five main options: Choose a fake (synthetic) tree. Get a real, cut Christmas tree. Opt for a living Christmas tree in a pot. MakeContinue reading “Sustainable Christmas Tree Options”
Planting For the Long Term
Often, gardeners and farmers will focus on plants which provide yields in the short term. They will grow annual fruits and vegetables, and, perhaps, plant fruit bushes and fruit trees which will yield only a year or two after planting. But great gardens and farms seek to provide for people and wildlife not just inContinue reading “Planting For the Long Term”
Start Your Own Organic Garden: An Online Course For Beginners
Right back at the beginning of this year, I ran a course to help new gardeners get started. I designed this simple, practical course to help beginners move to the point where they are ready to start their own organic food producing garden in the spring. People who took this course last year were kindContinue reading “Start Your Own Organic Garden: An Online Course For Beginners”
Where and How to Grow Herbs
From a sunny windowsill where you can grow herbs year round, to dedicated herb gardens outdoors, from annual polyculture beds in a kitchen garden, to fabulous forest garden schemes, there are plenty of options when it comes to herb cultivation. I recently shared some of my tips for starting a herb garden on Treehugger: MyContinue reading “Where and How to Grow Herbs”
Sustainable Sunday Lunch Idea
Today, we have had a lovely visit from my mum and dad. I made some lunch for everyone and we enjoyed a good chat over a vegetable pie, and an apple and caramel cake. While for many it may be more traditional to enjoy a Sunday roast – you do not necessarily have to eatContinue reading “Sustainable Sunday Lunch Idea”
Case Study: Eco Build Garden
This case study demonstrates a garden plot around a planned eco build on the south coast of England. The design aims to ensure visual amenity and appeal while maximising food production and making best use of resources on this small site. The site is approximately 250 sq m in size, located between farm fields andContinue reading “Case Study: Eco Build Garden”
Sanding Reclaimed Floorboards
Today I had a day off work and we have started lightly sanding the reclaimed floorboards that we’ve laid in the upstairs of our barn conversion. We absolutely love the variation and patina, so won’t be sanding down to a fine finish. We are just sanding to achieve a reasonably smooth finish. This character isContinue reading “Sanding Reclaimed Floorboards”
Winter Planning For Spring Planting
Even if you are not growing year round, there is still plenty to be done over the winter months to prepare for spring planting. Planning and preparation are important for a successful gardening year. When many people think about garden planning, they begin and end with deciding on and ordering the plants and seeds theyContinue reading “Winter Planning For Spring Planting”
Seeing the Good in Humanity is Important
As a species, are we intrinsically good? Or are we prey to baser instincts – just a small shake all that is needed for the veneer of civilisation to slip? Of course, the truth is likely somewhere in the middle. Humanity is both good and bad, wild and sedate, selfless and selfish. It may notContinue reading “Seeing the Good in Humanity is Important”
Make Giving a Habit
Today is ‘Giving Tuesday’ – a time when many charities and non-profits with have a fundraising push and a day on which many people choose to donate. I would, of course, urge anyone to give what they can to the causes they believe in. But charity should not be only about one-off donations on specificContinue reading “Make Giving a Habit”
Rewilding on a Domestic Scale
Some more ‘traditional’ gardeners who look at parts of my garden may be horrified by the un-manicured state of things, and the wild and natural ‘disorder’. But for me, rewilding on a domestic scale, as well as on a larger scale, is hugely important. We need far fewer neat lawns, of course, and far moreContinue reading “Rewilding on a Domestic Scale”
Painting Walls With Clay Paints
Today we’ve had another tiring but very satisfying day painting the walls in the upstairs of our barn conversion. We did the first coat in what will be out bedroom yesterday, and finished that off today, and we also got the first coat on walls we are painting in the bathroom, and the second bedroomContinue reading “Painting Walls With Clay Paints”
Case Study: Arizona Permaculture
This recent case study for Arizona takes me to a climate and environment very different to my own. The major challenges tackled in this design relate of course to water, and intense summer heat. My design seeks to work with the existing, while offering solutions for all the family who live here’s requirements and desires.Continue reading “Case Study: Arizona Permaculture”
This Black Friday, Remember What Your Purchases Really Cost
Black Friday represents the very worst of consumerist culture – the societal systems which encourage people to go out and buy, buy, buy. All the advertisements and gimmicks that companies use to try to coerce people into purchasing their products, or even worse – to make people think that they actually need them, are darkContinue reading “This Black Friday, Remember What Your Purchases Really Cost”
Reduce Food Waste – Make Full Use of Leftovers
I hope that those of my friends in the US celebrating Thanksgiving (or enjoying a meal with family or friends) are enjoying the holiday. But thinking about your celebrations, I was minded to write today about the importance of making full use of leftovers in order to prevent food waste. Food waste is, as manyContinue reading “Reduce Food Waste – Make Full Use of Leftovers”
Giving Thanks
I know that many in the United States will be celebrating with family and friends, and I hope that celebrations will go well. Of course, not everyone feels that this holiday is an occasion for celebration. It is important not to be blind to the historical realities behind the polite fictions that are a partContinue reading “Giving Thanks”
Choosing an Attractive Tree For a Garden
All too often, those looking for garden inspiration seem to divide plants for a garden into two categories – edible and useful plants are placed in one category, and ornamental plants in another. Unfortunately, this type of segregation blinds people to the beauty of edible and useful plants, and to the culinary or other usesContinue reading “Choosing an Attractive Tree For a Garden”
Ecosystem Restoration – Avoiding Mistakes, Doing No Harm
I recently wrote an article for Treehugger about the Lessons I’ve Learned Through Ecosystem Restoration. In this article, I try to put to rest some of the common misconceptions about ecosystem restoration, and highlight some of the common mistakes that are made. I talk about the vital importance of designing for a specific site, andContinue reading “Ecosystem Restoration – Avoiding Mistakes, Doing No Harm”
Barn Conversion Decisions
We’ve pretty much finished laying the reclaimed flooring in the upstairs of our barn conversion. And this weekend was a time for some crucial decisions. For years now, we have slowly been slogging away – largely on things that will not actually be seen once the build is finished. So far, our decisions have largelyContinue reading “Barn Conversion Decisions”
Case Study: Tennessee Permaculture
This example shows some recent work for a garden in Tennessee. This is in zone 7a, with a frost free period of 190 to 200 days, mean annual air temperature of 57-61 degrees F, and 46-60 inches annual precipitation. The predominant soil of this area is a silt loam, free draining and moderately acidic. OneContinue reading “Case Study: Tennessee Permaculture”
Hope – The Route to a Better Future
Of course, the COP26 conference has failed to deliver the agreements we so urgently need to translate words into positive action. But for me, that does not mean that all is lost. One key thing that it is important to remember is that we should hope. Hope is often a feat of the imagination, andContinue reading “Hope – The Route to a Better Future”
Taking a Bird’s Eye View
Whether literally enjoying a bird’s eye view with the modern technology of a drone, honing in with online mapping, or simply using the imagination, taking a bird’s eye view of a site can help us see the bigger picture. It can help us to filter out some of the detail that might confuse us whenContinue reading “Taking a Bird’s Eye View”
Site Analysis in Permaculture Design
Other garden designers are often somewhat confused by the extensive site analysis process permaculture designers go through before they even begin to formulate their designs. But as those familiar with permaculture will know – understanding of a specific site and the sectors acting on it is crucial for truly sustainable design. Though I work remotely,Continue reading “Site Analysis in Permaculture Design”
Bioregional Organisation in Sustainability
Understanding your bioregion can be important in finding a deep rooted connection to and appreciation for the place where you live. And looking at conservation, ecosystem restoration and sustainability can also involve bioregional approaches and bioregional organisation. When we think about where we live in the world, we will often focus on political boundaries, whichContinue reading “Bioregional Organisation in Sustainability”
Never Stop Learning in Life
Whether we are talking about learning more about the natural world or sustainability, or gaining the skills we need to live better, we should never stop learning in life. All too often, we think about education as something which ends when we leave school, college or university. But the life-long pursuit of knowledge, and keepingContinue reading “Never Stop Learning in Life”
Reclaimed Flooring Going Down in Our Barn Conversion
This weekend, as well as doing some garden jobs and having some rest time too, we have been continuing to put down the reclaimed flooring we purchased for the upstairs of our steading conversion or barn conversion project. We are really happy with the character and appearance of these boards, and think that they willContinue reading “Reclaimed Flooring Going Down in Our Barn Conversion”
Case Study: Chateau Permaculture
This is a concept design for a chateau in France, which is currently in the process of renovation. The new owners are saving the partially derelict buildings, and will be utilising the land for weddings and events, a glamping site, and a sustainable food production and restaurant business, and wanted some help to visualise theContinue reading “Case Study: Chateau Permaculture”
Collecting Up Fallen Leaves
This weekend, if it stops raining, I plan to do some raking. Collecting up fallen leaves is not always necessary. And of course it can often be beneficial to leave them where they fall, to rot down naturally and complete the natural cycle. However, I do collect up leaves from part of my garden eachContinue reading “Collecting Up Fallen Leaves”
Sustainable Christmas Gifts
Though it may be too early to think about Christmas or other mid-winter festivals just yet, my mind turns in November to what I might give to friends and family. The reason that I often start to think about this in November is that I usually make gifts. Of course, planning and making gifts takesContinue reading “Sustainable Christmas Gifts”
Good News on Beavers in Scotland
With all the depressing news at the moment, it is good when we do have something positive to cheer about, and I was delighted to hear the news that the Scottish government has granted Scotland’s first edge-of-range beaver translocation licence to Argaty in Perthshire – an environmentally sensitive farm already home to the award winningContinue reading “Good News on Beavers in Scotland”
Who is Showing True Leadership in the Climate Crisis and Who is Not
While not surprised, I have been disappointed by the showing by many ‘world leaders’ at COP26. Voluntary agreements announced thus far may sometimes seem positive on the surface, but massive loopholes and vague language most definitely remain. The draft of the Glasgow decision text has laid out the next steps nations will take to tackleContinue reading “Who is Showing True Leadership in the Climate Crisis and Who is Not”
Gardening Helps Fight the Winter Blues
In winter, as the nights draw in, it is easy to feel despondent. You may sometimes get the feeling that things have stalled. Taking on a gardening project can help you avoid that slumped winter feeling – giving you purpose and a sense of drive over the coldest months. Even when plants in your gardenContinue reading “Gardening Helps Fight the Winter Blues”
Simplifying and Downsizing for Sustainability
Since I shared that tiny home case study yesterday, I’ve had an interesting conversation with someone about why they ‘could not possibly live in such a tiny home’. This cuts to the heart of a key issue in sustainability – how much – how many belongings – do we really need. Most of us inContinue reading “Simplifying and Downsizing for Sustainability”
Case Study: Tiny Home Agroforestry and Rewilding
When people acquire a piece of land, often, their first thought is to erect a large home on it. But as this interesting project demonstrates, we can live much more lightly on the land. This plot in Scotland comprises almost a hectare (just under 2.5 acres) of marginal land but will accommodate a wooden cabinContinue reading “Case Study: Tiny Home Agroforestry and Rewilding”
Philosophy of Sustainability
As a philosophy graduate, I have a strong interest in the philosophical questions surrounding sustainability and the climate crisis. I did not pursue a path in academia, but I am strongly of the opinion that intellectual thought should not be the preserve of ivory towers. We should ask ourselves the big important questions in ourContinue reading “Philosophy of Sustainability”
Remaining Vigilant for Hypocrisy at COP26
While there are undoubtedly some signs for hope coming out of the climate change conference in Glasgow this week, unfortunately, our leaders are, in some major ways, still falling far short. After speaking about the vital importance of action at the conference, Boris Johnson and other leaders have been criticised for flying back home. TimeContinue reading “Remaining Vigilant for Hypocrisy at COP26”
Can COP Really Deliver on Climate Finance and Climate Justice?
As discourse on climate finance is taking place at the COP26 conference, mobilising public and private finance is key. Financial services firms have agreed to align $130 trillion with climate goals, and a new financial mechanism of green bonds has been announced… But while energy coalesces around this aspect of tackling the crises we face,Continue reading “Can COP Really Deliver on Climate Finance and Climate Justice?”
It Might Not Be Too Late to Start Growing This Year
If you have an undercover growing area, or live in a warmer temperate climate zone, growing edible produce is not just something which is confined to the summer months. Even in a cooler temperate climate, you can still get growing if you consider options for windowsill growing indoors. In November, there is still time toContinue reading “It Might Not Be Too Late to Start Growing This Year”
Sustainable Halloween & Very Busy as COP 26 Starts
Please excuse the hiatus over the last couple of days. I do try to post here most days but did not manage to do so over the weekend. As COP26 starts, and the world’s attention turns to these pivotal talks, those of us involved in sustainability and permaculture are busier than ever. Do check outContinue reading “Sustainable Halloween & Very Busy as COP 26 Starts”
The Importance of Art and Music
I am posting rather late tonight because we have had a lovely evening of guitar and singing with friends and some family. Art and music are important in our lives. They can help us to give expression to our feelings and our thoughts. For me, that is never more important than when we are facingContinue reading “The Importance of Art and Music”
Pre-COP 26, NDCs Are Not Enough
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) pre-COP 26 have been updated and, as UNEP’s The Emissions Gap Report 2021: The Heat Is On reveals, these are not enough to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement and keep anthropocentric global warming below 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels. With COP 26 just a couple of days away, evenContinue reading “Pre-COP 26, NDCs Are Not Enough”
Prepare Now to Protect Plants From Winter Frost
I would not be without my polytunnel for winter growing. Now is a time when I check this structure over, and make sure everything is ready and secure to see my winter crops and overwintering crops through the colder months to come. Winter is not here yet, but it really is just around the corner.Continue reading “Prepare Now to Protect Plants From Winter Frost”
Are Your Financial Dealings Helping or Hindering Climate Efforts?
When you think about living in a more sustainable way, you are likely to begin by looking at those things that are closest to home – food production, energy, recycling. You’ll likely look at how you get around, and, of course, at what you choose to buy (or to avoid buying). Often, however, people tryingContinue reading “Are Your Financial Dealings Helping or Hindering Climate Efforts?”
Why a Slow Cooker is Great for Sustainable Living
I’m just finishing up work after a busy day and I am reminded once more just how useful my slow cooker is for sustainable living. Some days, when I have been flat out at work (like today) I really don’t feel like cooking an elaborate meal. But as we all know, cooking fresh, local orContinue reading “Why a Slow Cooker is Great for Sustainable Living”
Sustainable Halloween: Prepare to Prevent Pumpkin Waste
Many love to carve pumpkins and squash for Halloween, and we are no exception. But in trying to live a sustainable life, it is important to avoid food waste whenever we can. We should make sure we use as much of the pumpkins and squash for food as we can before we carve them. AndContinue reading “Sustainable Halloween: Prepare to Prevent Pumpkin Waste”
Case Study: South Carolina Permaculture Plan
This is a recent concept design for a property in South Carolina, where the needs of a family of three and their dogs must be met. This garden in USDA hardiness zone 7b slopes down very slightly from the south west to north east, with a slightly more pronounced slope down from the front ofContinue reading “Case Study: South Carolina Permaculture Plan”
We Must Lobby As Hard For Climate Action as Some Do Against It
If you have not yet seen this story, then I urge you to read it. As politicians gear up for COP26, an expose of leaked documents reveals just how hard it will be to change the status quo. Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia and OPEC have pressed to water down a key UN scientificContinue reading “We Must Lobby As Hard For Climate Action as Some Do Against It”
Plant Spring Bulbs Around Fruit Trees
Spring bulbs are a wonderful option for fruit tree guilds in many temperate zones. Today, I thought I would share with you some of the reasons why you should consider planting spring bulbs around fruit trees in your garden: Spring Bulbs Help Suppress Grass Growth Grass can be overly competitive with shallow tree roots, andContinue reading “Plant Spring Bulbs Around Fruit Trees”
Adapt and Thrive: Are You A Climate Conscious Gardener?
Many of the approaches I take in my garden and in my daily life are all about mitigating the impacts of climate change. But adaptation is also extremely important. As well as doing my best to reduce carbon emissions and increase sequestration, I am also very aware of the need to adapt to the inevitableContinue reading “Adapt and Thrive: Are You A Climate Conscious Gardener?”
Storing Root Vegetables for Winter
Before you harvest some of the last crops of the year, you might want to consider where to store root vegetables for winter so here are a few simple tips: Some vegetables, like leeks, brassicas and root vegetables, for example, can be left in the growing areas (with a little protection) and harvested as andContinue reading “Storing Root Vegetables for Winter”
Choosing Sustainable Flooring For Your Home
Throughout much of our barn conversion we plan to install reclaimed timber flooring. Today, I thought I would briefly write about how you might go about choosing sustainable flooring for your home. First of all, reuse is something to consider. Choosing reclaimed materials rather than buying new can often be a sustainable choice. This isContinue reading “Choosing Sustainable Flooring For Your Home”
Our Experience In Our Barn Renovation So Far
Reclaiming and restoring old agricultural or industrial buildings can reduce the need for new materials, and provide sustainable places to live. Rescuing old buildings that are no longer utilised for their original purpose can sometimes be a green option. I would certainly suggest that it is a great option to look into – though itContinue reading “Our Experience In Our Barn Renovation So Far”
Case Study: Aiming for Self-Sufficiency
This is a design for a smallholding for a couple with this fairly modest piece of land in SE Scotland who are aiming for as much self-sufficiency as possible. The couple already grows some fruits and vegetables but wished to create a design which would allow them to increase their resilience and self-reliance. The coupleContinue reading “Case Study: Aiming for Self-Sufficiency”
The Run Up To COP26
As the pivotal climate change conference draws closer, Scotland is ramping up to host visitors and dignitaries from all over the world. Though I do not plan to go through to Glasgow for events, I will be keeping a close eye on happenings, and will certainly be checking out plenty of fringe events online. ThereContinue reading “The Run Up To COP26”
Identifying Future Potential in Sustainable Agriculture
Agriculture is entering a period of massive disruption – whether farmers like it or not. There is an urgent need for reform within the farming sector and mitigation and adaptation are both crucial not just for farmer’s profits, but for the future of us all. This may be an extremely worrying time for many farmersContinue reading “Identifying Future Potential in Sustainable Agriculture”
Sustainability in Communities
Building a stronger sense of community is crucial for the transition to a more sustainable way of life. In the past, everyone belonged to strong local communities – everyone knew one another and it was normal to know all your neighbours. Few of us are lucky enough to be in the same position today. ThoughContinue reading “Sustainability in Communities”
Avoiding Extractive Industry as a Gardener
One key thing for those who want to live a more sustainable way of life is moving from an extractive to a regenerative mindset. We need to think about using and valuing renewable resources rather than continuing to take and take finite resources. Even gardeners who try to avoid an extractive mindset in their gardensContinue reading “Avoiding Extractive Industry as a Gardener”
Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a day celebrating the native peoples of America, has been recognised by the federal government in the US, and this is a day to recognise their contribution and, crucially, to listen to what they have to say as we transition to a more sustainable future. But as well as celebrating, we shouldContinue reading “Indigenous Peoples’ Day”
Our Dumfries and Galloway Trip
We’ve just got back from our wonderful few days away in south western Scotland, in Galloway Forest Park and the surrounding area. We were staying here: And here are a few pictures of highlights of the trip, as we walked, relaxed and, on the last night, enjoyed a campfire under the stars.
Clay Paints in Our Barn Conversion
No progress has been made this week on our barn conversion since, as I mentioned before, I am away for a few days. But we are almost finished with the clay plastering upstairs now and will soon be ordering the paint. We are using clay paints for this. The clay paints will create a mattContinue reading “Clay Paints in Our Barn Conversion”
Walking Dogs Responsibly
While I am away on a trip with my husband and my dog, we will of course be taking steps to make sure that we walk our dog responsibly. So I thought I would share some sustainable tips today for those who also have dogs, to help them make sure they are not causing anyContinue reading “Walking Dogs Responsibly”
The Importance of Seasonal Connection
In the modern world, it is all too easy for us to lose our connection to the natural world and to feel adrift from the natural shifts in the seasons. One of the most important things in living in a healthier and more sustainable way is rediscovering that sense of connection. We all need toContinue reading “The Importance of Seasonal Connection”
Taking a Sustainable Trip
Today, my husband and I are heading off for a trip from our home here in Fife, Scotland to a different part of Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway (where my family come from on my Dad’s side). We will be staying in a Shepherd’s Hut in a tranquil location close to the dark skies area ofContinue reading “Taking a Sustainable Trip”
Farming Subsidies
A recent UN report, which I wrote about recently in Treehugger has found that almost 90% of the subsidies given to farmers around the globe each year are harmful to people and the planet. Thinking about how we can overhaul current farming subsidies around the world is crucial to creating the future we all wishContinue reading “Farming Subsidies”
Sustainable Gift Ideas
I had my birthday recently, and my husband’s birthday is coming up soon. Today, I’ve been thinking about gifts and thought I would take a moment to explain the types of sustainable gift ideas we choose. First of all, on our household, we won’t usually rush out to the shops. But we do, of course,Continue reading “Sustainable Gift Ideas”
Fragile Systems Hamper Sustainability
One need only look at the issues relating to the energy supply, and fuel supplies here in the UK at the moment to recognise that fragile systems are an issue for any society which aims for true sustainability. I have spoken quite a lot about the importance of building resilience and reducing fragility at allContinue reading “Fragile Systems Hamper Sustainability”
Case Study: Malaysia Permaculture Concept Plan
This is a concept plan that I have just created for a family in Malaysia. I am still working on some of the details with the client, and have yet to complete the full planting plans, but this concept design gives an overview of the diverse uses to which the area will be put. TheContinue reading “Case Study: Malaysia Permaculture Concept Plan”
Sustainable Houseplants?
Houseplants can be beneficial in a range of ways – improving the air quality in your home, and helping you feel calmer. But they might not always be quite as sustainable or eco-friendly as you might think. Those who are interested in living in a more sustainable way often begin by thinking about re-greening theirContinue reading “Sustainable Houseplants?”
Competition’s Role in Garden Design
Competition is something that we tend to think about in different contexts. But in garden design, it can be useful to think about competition too. Competition is a normal part of nature – and just like in a social context, it is something that can be beneficial or something which can hinder progress. One ofContinue reading “Competition’s Role in Garden Design”
Projects to Aid Winter Growing
While winter can still seem quite far off some days, we are nearly in October, and for us where we live, that means that we are likely to experience the first frosts in around a month to two months time. It can vary quite a lot. Sometimes our first frosts are in late October, sometimesContinue reading “Projects to Aid Winter Growing”
Sustainable Autumn Activities
Autumn is, in many ways, my favourite season. Even though the weather is turning and the nights are drawing in, I find this one of the most beautiful seasons. I love the changing foliage, the soft, golden light, and the warm tones of late season flowers. Of course, I also love the fruit-filled abundance ofContinue reading “Sustainable Autumn Activities”
Practicing What We Preach
In the run up to COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference of Parties, it is more important than ever that we move from paying lip service to sustainability and tackling our climate crisis to real and lasting action. It is very easy for politicians and those in the public eye to say the ‘right things’.Continue reading “Practicing What We Preach”
Sustainability – From Scratch
I am always trying to persuade people how rewarding it can be to make things for yourself and do things for yourself from scratch. Often, taking a DIY approach and taking that little extra time to work from scratch rather than buying things in can be the best way to start to live more sustainably.Continue reading “Sustainability – From Scratch”
Case Study: Shared Tenement Garden
Shared gardens can often be boring and largely featureless spaces, which, in attempting to please everyone, actually please no-one. These spaces have to do a lot. But careful collaboration between all stakeholders or garden users can create truly abundant, productive and beautiful spaces. This is my design for a garden in Scotland shared by fourContinue reading “Case Study: Shared Tenement Garden”
Reducing Energy Bills at Home
Many people at the moment are worried about how much their energy will cost this winter. I won’t get into the energy situation here and now, but I thought it might be helpful to make a few simple suggestions to help anyone, even renters, reduce their energy bills at home: Heat only rooms that needContinue reading “Reducing Energy Bills at Home”
A Sustainable Future for Forestry
Mono-crop timber tree plantations certainly aren’t forests. A true forest has biodiversity and is a complex web of life where all the elements within the system work together in a wide range of complex ways. When we hear about ‘sustainable forestry’, all too often, this is sadly a misnomer. Simply replacing sufficient trees after someContinue reading “A Sustainable Future for Forestry”
Tools I Use When Harvesting and Prepping Apples
Harvesting apples from multiple trees can take quite a lot of time. But using certain tools can make things a lot quicker and easier. Here are the apple picking and prepping tools/equipment that I would not be without: A fruit picker. I have a long-handled one which allows me to reach the tops of ourContinue reading “Tools I Use When Harvesting and Prepping Apples”
Turning On A Tap
Today we were able to turn on a tap in the bathroom in the barn conversion for the first time, since my husband finished installing the fittings and connecting the bath waste. So we have running water in there for the first time in this self-build conversion. There is not yet any hot water, sinceContinue reading “Turning On A Tap”
Building Natural Capital
When you think about how wealthy you are, you might think about bricks and mortar property, possessions, and money in the bank. But it is important to understand that wealth comes also from the natural world around us. Whether on your own property, in your community, or in your broader environment, building natural capital isContinue reading “Building Natural Capital”
Progress on Our Barn Conversion
I have been in the barn again all day today – from 7.00am to 4.30 pm when I came in to make our dinner, with just a brief break for lunch. So I am sure you will excuse me for not writing a longer post today. As you may be aware if you have readContinue reading “Progress on Our Barn Conversion”
Case Study: Zone 9 Permaculture Plan
This is a concept plan for a lot in Orlando, Florida. Orlando is in USDA planting zone 9b, experiencing hot, humid summers which can make growing a challenge, but also offering the enviable opportunity to grow cool season crops over the winter months. This is an ideal location for the creation of a food forest,Continue reading “Case Study: Zone 9 Permaculture Plan”
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