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The willow feeder system, developed by permaculture expert Paul Wheaton, offers a "freaky-cheap" and sustainable alternative to conventional septic systems and sewage treatment plants. This system employs a unique method of managing human waste, transforming it into a nutrient-rich fertilizer known as "willow candy." Unlike composting toilets, which rely on decomposition, willow feeders utilize sealed garbage cans to create a dry environment that mummifies the waste, effectively eliminating pathogens while conserving valuable carbon and nitrogen. A small amount of sawdust is added to each can, primarily for aesthetics. After aging for two years in these sealed containers, the resulting pathogen-free "willow candy" is ready to be applied as fertilizer. However, not all plants can handle the high nutrient content of this unique fertilizer. "Poop beasts", such as willow, cottonwood, poplar, and bamboo trees, thrive on "willow candy" and readily absorb its nutrients. The willow feeder system exemplifies permaculture principles by turning human waste into a valuable resource, fostering sustainable gardening practices and minimizing environmental impact. Paul Wheaton, a prominent figure in the permaculture community, has implemented the willow feeder system at his property, Wheaton Labs, and actively promotes it through his online platforms, including permies.com. He often refers to waste as a "feed" for another system, encouraging a shift in perspective towards a more holistic view of resource management.
SKIP, which stands for Skills to Inherit Property, is a permaculture-based program designed to connect aspiring homesteaders with aging landowners seeking successors for their properties. The program consists of over a thousand practical projects, referred to as "Badge Bits" (BBs), encompassing various aspects of sustainable living, such as gardening, natural building, animal care, and food preservation. Participants, known as "Skippers," complete these BBs, documenting their progress with pictures and videos to demonstrate their skills and dedication. As Skippers gain experience, they progress through levels of certification, starting with PEP1 (Permaculture Experience according to Paul) and culminating in PEP4, representing a significant level of expertise. "Otis," a fictional character in the SKIP program, represents the numerous landowners seeking worthy individuals to inherit their properties. The program aims to create a bridge between these Otises and Skippers, offering a pathway for Skippers to "skip the rat race" and acquire land while providing Otises with peace of mind knowing their homesteads will be in capable hands. SKIP emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency among participants.
Hugelkultur, is a permaculture garden bed technique where wood is buried under the soil. It can be built in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used for growing a variety of "garden plants". The decomposing wood acts "like a sponge to hold water", making hugelkultur ideal for areas that receive little rainfall. Over time, the wood shrinks and creates air pockets, resulting in a self-tilling garden bed. This "soil on wood" technique helps to retain moisture and nutrients in the soil, which benefits the plants. Hugelkultur is an environmentally sustainable gardening technique because it uses wood that might otherwise be discarded.
"Pooless," a popular term within the permaculture community, advocates for ditching conventional shampoos and soaps, opting for natural alternatives or simply water. This approach aligns with permaculture's ethos of reducing reliance on commercial products and minimizing chemical usage. Proponents cite benefits like reduced chemical exposure and improved hair health. The transition to "poolessness" involves a "detox" phase as the scalp rebalances its natural oil production (sebum). Popular methods include baking soda and apple cider vinegar rinses, brushing to distribute natural oils, and even using a flea comb and soapy water. While some experience temporary issues like dandruff, waxiness, or static, many report positive outcomes, like reduced scalp problems, thicker hair, and even migraine relief. "Poolessness" extends beyond hair care, encompassing a holistic approach to personal hygiene, often accompanied by a reevaluation of showering frequency. This minimalist approach to personal care resonates with permaculture's emphasis on simplicity, self-sufficiency, and minimizing environmental impact.