Permaculture's design principles are modelled on interactions seen in natural ecosystems, and on achieving maximum gain for minimal energy expenditure. Each design element - orchard, dam, vegetable garden etc - has its needs, outputs and properties analysed. These design elements are then assembled in relation to one another so that the products of one element feed the needs of adjacent elements, reducing energy consumption all round. Housing chooks next to a greenhouse, for instance, keeps the chooks sheltered and productive, keeps the greenhouse frost-free, and provides abundant fertiliser and pest management services to the crops.
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