Introduction
Permaculture Principle Eleven, also known as “Use Edges and Value the Marginal,” is a crucial component in sustainable and resilient design. This principle emphasizes the importance of those areas that exist between two different systems – the “edges” and “marginal” spaces – which are often rich in diversity and productivity. This document will delve into the definition, role, applications, benefits, and challenges of implementing this principle within the context of permaculture. By understanding and valuing these often overlooked areas, we can make strides towards more sustainable living practices.
Understanding Principle Eleven: Use Edges, Value the Margin
Permaculture Principle Eleven underscores the idea of “Using Edges and Valuing the Marginal.” According to this principle, the most productive and diverse areas in any system are those where different elements intersect. In nature, this can be seen in the rich abundance of life present at the edges of ecosystems, such as where a forest meets a meadow or a river meets the sea.
In permaculture, this principle encourages us to recognize and utilize these ‘edge’ areas, whether in a physical sense, such as the border between a garden and woodland or in a metaphorical sense, such as the boundary between different disciplines or ideas. By doing so, we can create a diverse and thriving system. The principle also places emphasis on valuing the ‘marginal’, or overlooked, areas and elements in our systems, often finding that they offer unique and surprising benefits.
The role of this principle in permaculture is to guide us toward maximizing productivity and diversity, while also fostering resilience and sustainability. We are encouraged to see edges and marginal areas not as barriers or ‘waste’ spaces, but as opportunities for creative interaction and beneficial integration. This way, Principle Eleven moves us closer to the permaculture ideal of mimicking the efficiency and diversity of natural ecosystems.
Application of Permaculture Principle Eleven
Applying Principle Eleven in permaculture design often involves strategic planning to enhance the productivity and biodiversity of a given space. For instance, in a permaculture garden, one might deliberately design a transition area where a vegetable patch leads into an orchard. This ‘edge’ area can be planted with beneficial companion plants that provide various functions such as attracting pollinators, deterring pests, or improving soil health. Similarly, a pond edge could be planted with marginal aquatic plants that filter water and provide habitat for wildlife, effectively utilizing a space that might otherwise be overlooked.
In the context of a homestead or farm, Principle Eleven of permaculture could be applied by integrating a chicken coop with a compost area. The chickens contribute to composting by breaking down food scraps and their droppings enrich the compost with essential nutrients. This creates a dynamic edge between waste management and food production.
In a typical yard, we can apply this principle by designing a ‘wild’ edge, for instance, between the manicured lawn and the fence line. This area could be left to grow naturally, encouraging local wildflowers to flourish and creating a mini habitat for local wildlife.
On a larger scale, in a community garden, the margin can be utilized by installing benches and information boards. This not only provides a space for rest and learning but also encourages social interactions among gardeners.
Lastly, on the edges of a farm field, planting a mixed hedgerow can provide multiple benefits. It can act as a windbreak protecting the crops, a habitat for beneficial insects and birds, and if planted with edible species, it can extend the farm’s yield. Each of these applications is a testament to the versatility and wisdom of Principle Eleven, turning once-overlooked spaces into hubs of productivity and biodiversity.
In a broader societal context, Permaculture Principle Eleven might influence the design of community projects or initiatives. The borders between different professional fields or social groups could be seen as fertile ‘edges’ for creative collaboration. For instance, a project that integrates art and environmental education, or a community garden that brings together people of different ages and backgrounds, could yield innovative ideas and strengthen social connections.
Benefits of Permaculture Principle Eleven
Furthermore, Permaculture Principle Eleven encourages us to value the ‘marginal’ – the elements that are often underappreciated or excluded. In a garden design, this might mean incorporating native wild plants that are typically seen as ‘weeds’ but can provide important ecosystem services. On a larger scale, it might involve listening to marginalized voices in a community and recognizing the unique perspectives and skills they bring. By applying Principle Eleven, we create designs that are not only productive and diverse but also equitable and inclusive.
Moreover, the application of Permaculture Principle Eleven can lead to an enhanced understanding and appreciation of natural systems. As we begin to perceive the “edges” and “marginal” spaces as areas of high productivity and potential, we cultivate a deeper awareness of the inherent wisdom in nature’s design. This can inspire us to adopt more sustainable practices, from composting kitchen waste to harvesting rainwater, thereby reducing our environmental footprint. Additionally, the principle promotes biodiversity, a critical element for the health and resilience of ecosystems. By incorporating a range of species in our designs — from beneficial insects to native plants — we support a more dynamic and robust web of life. This principle, when applied on a societal level, encourages diversity and inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among community members, while harnessing the collective strength of diverse skills and perspectives. Hence, the benefits of applying Permaculture Principle Eleven extend beyond the boundaries of our gardens to impact our broader ecological and social systems.
Challenges of Permaculture Principle Eleven
Applying Principle Eleven in permaculture design brings various challenges. For one, the identification of ‘edges’ or ‘marginal’ spaces and elements may not always be intuitive, and it requires a deep understanding of the specific system or community in focus. Moreover, efforts to utilize these spaces or integrate marginalized elements might be met with resistance, as conventional norms and practices often favor a more uniform approach.
However, there are ways to overcome these obstacles. Education and awareness-raising can help people appreciate the value of diversity and the potential of ‘edge’ spaces or ‘marginal’ elements. Involving a wide range of stakeholders in the design process can ensure that different perspectives are heard and considered. Implementation of Principle Eleven may also benefit from ongoing monitoring and evaluation, allowing for adjustments and refinements as needed. This way, we can continually learn from our experiences and improve our designs over time.
Conclusion
Permaculture Principle Eleven is an important reminder that diversity is key for creating resilient systems. It encourages us to look beyond the obvious and explore ‘edge’ spaces and ‘marginal’ elements, as these may contain hidden opportunities or valuable skills. By designing with Principle Eleven in mind, we can create equitable and inclusive designs that are both productive and diverse.
For more on permaculture principles see my article permaculture principle one.