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The willow feeder system, a "freaky-cheap" and sustainable approach to human waste management, was developed by permaculture expert Paul Wheaton as an alternative to conventional septic systems and sewage treatment plants. The system emphasizes a closed-loop cycle, transforming human waste, or "poop", into valuable fertilizer, termed "willow candy". Unlike composting toilets, willow feeders utilize a dry environment created within sealed garbage cans to mummify the waste, preventing composting and the potential spread of pathogens. A small amount of sawdust is added to each can, primarily for aesthetic purposes. This dry process also preserves valuable carbon and nitrogen, which are often lost to the atmosphere during hot composting. After two years of aging, the pathogen-free "willow candy" can be safely applied as fertilizer to "poop beasts" — trees like willow, cottonwood, poplar, and bamboo — which can handle the high nutrient content without being harmed. This system turns human waste into a valuable resource, promoting sustainable gardening practices.
"Pooless," a term popularized in the permaculture community, refers to the practice of forgoing commercial shampoos, conditioners, and soaps in favor of natural alternatives or simply water. Advocates for this approach cite numerous benefits, including reduced exposure to harsh chemicals, improved hair and scalp health, and decreased environmental impact. The transition to "poolessness" often involves an adjustment period, as the scalp rebalances its natural oil production (sebum). Common methods include rinsing with baking soda and apple cider vinegar solutions, brushing to distribute natural oils, and using a flea comb and soapy water for cleaning. While some individuals experience challenges like dandruff, waxiness, or static electricity, many report positive outcomes, including reduced scalp issues, increased hair thickness and body, and even the disappearance of chronic migraines. "Poolessness" aligns with permaculture principles by reducing reliance on commercial products, minimizing chemical usage, and promoting a more natural and sustainable approach to personal care.
"HUSP," an acronym for "Horticulture of the United States of Pocahontas," is a term coined by Paul Wheaton to explore a fictional scenario where Native American agricultural practices, similar to permaculture, dominated the United States. This concept envisions an alternate history where Pocahontas, depicted as a brilliant strategist, prevents European colonization, leading to the establishment of the United States of Pocahontas (USP). Within this fictional nation, agricultural practices prioritize respect for the Earth, rejecting destructive methods like plowing and the use of petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides. HUSP speculates on the potential for superior agricultural output and societal well-being through these nature-centric methods. Wheaton uses the HUSP concept to inspire innovation and advancement within the existing permaculture community, aiming to accelerate progress towards more sustainable and effective food production systems. He proposes a collaborative project involving practitioners of various agricultural approaches, including permaculture, biodynamic, and native plant specialists, working on a 2000-acre plot divided into smaller chunks. This project aims to foster knowledge exchange and accelerate the development of HUSP principles in the real world.