watch it here:
https://youtu.be/BRnEuTN-MGA?si=Bo7ziusNqSxfBAi6
In this excerpt from the Wheaton Labs’
Permaculture Design Course, we explore the idea of cycling nutrients, an essential concept for modern
sustainable living. The discussion centers on the analogy of a "cycle" or a "loop," reflecting on how we deal with nutrients and materials in our society, particularly on properties where we grow food and harvest
water. Emphasizing the necessity of closing nutrient loops, the video advocates for the thoughtful
reuse and recycling of introduced nutrients and resources. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to strategies for recycling nutrients, with composting as a primary method. By transforming food waste back into nutrient-rich
compost, we ensure it returns to the system rather than ending up in landfills. The video also brings attention to the human cycle of food consumption and waste production, suggesting how, over time, this cycle can contribute to correcting nutrient imbalances in our soil and environment.
The video further delves into the efficient management of water on a property, explaining how capturing and slowly soaking water into the soil can make a significant difference. The importance of strategically positioning various elements in a landscape, such as
trees, animals, and vegetable gardens, to capture and distribute nutrients is highlighted. The role of gravity in nutrient distribution, both in terms of materials tumbling downhill and dissolved nutrients in water, is emphasized. The video suggests that trees can act as nutrient traps, and harvested fruits from these trees can be used to transport nutrients uphill. The concept of gravity-assisted nutrient transport is also expanded to include the movement of animals within a landscape. Lastly, the video illustrates the role of
chickens in a nutrient cycling system and explains the potential benefits of strategically locating composting systems and grey water usage points on a property. This in-depth exploration of nutrient cycling demonstrates how using natural forces in our favor can make sustainable living more efficient and attainable.
Tim has come a long way since his days as a diesel fitter mechanic, and now spends his time between Australia and New Zealand (and sometimes the US) as a semi professional pyromaniac and mad scientist teaching people how to burn stuff and make really cool machines and devices for low
carbon living. He currently teaches
Appropriate Technology for the Koanga Institute in New Zealand and Very Edible Gardens (VEG) in Melbourne, to name a few.He has previously been farm manager for the
Permaculture Research Institute of Australia, power station operator/mechanic, adventure guide and professional turtle wrestler. His
rocket stove and char making powered hot water systems, ovens and cookers reflect his passion for elegant simple and durable combustion technologies. Other projects include gravity powered water pumps,
solar thermal cookers and dryers, pedal powered washing machines, cargo bikes, hovercraft, wooden boats and aquaponics, to name a few. When he is not tinkering he can be found on Macleay Island off the coast of Queensland Australia, where he and his family live and are currently in the process of building a rammed earth house (with maybe a little sailing thrown in).He is particularly well known for his safe and effective rocket
hot water heating system. He brings practical, hands on
experience with some truly fascinating projects to the table.
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