Eco Living Portugal » Permaculture

Cursos gratuitos do PRODER para começar em Lisboa

admin — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:57:09 +0000

Vivam, permacultore(a)s,

Há uns cursos a formar-se, querem participar?

Curso de ArcGIS – 14h -

Gestão de Empresas Agrícolas – 140h -

Produção Integrada Animal – 211h -

Técnicos de Micologia – 61h -

Formadores de Micologia – 66h -

São para ser realizados em Lisboa, pode ser uma boa oportunidade para quem anda por Lisboa com vontade de ir para o campo

Há condições especiais para poder participar, as condições estão no ficheiro anexo, vejam;

Além disso os cursos não têm custos para os participantes, e como são do PRODER, financiam uma ajuda para o almoço e o transporte dos participantes, pelo menos antes era assim.

Divulgem, por favor. Se quiserem participar, enviem-me um email para pedroccta@yahoo.com

Abraços e Beijinhos,

Pedro Almeida

ReOccupy Portugal

Earth Monki — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:20:00 +0000

I have seen a possibility here and a lot of factors that work in favor of this possibility, so it has motivated me to start working on this idea.

It's about collaboratively re-occupying and regenerating abandoned rural land, starting here in Portugal. Since I know of no other cases of this here in Portugal I will be starting with my own land as a lead case study, lead example or pilot project for lack of any better term. I am currently in the process of investigating this further but let me explain the idea ...

The idea is based on identifying large areas of land where 'rural abandonment' has occurred and where each of the seperate pieces of land within this area can be occupied (via purchase or some kind of exchange agreement) by individuals, partners or groups for the intention and purpose of 'earth regeneration'. By earth regeneration what I mean is the reforestation / regeneration of land using Permaculture Principles (principles derived from observing nature) to create balanced, diverse and resilient eco-systems capable of supporting productive, sustainable agriculture and as a consequence promote a sustainable localised economy for the incumbent and surrounding community.

The idea would be that each piece of land remains autonomous and that the owners / occupiers (I would like to call them 'Earth Neighbours' since it is in tune with the idea I'm trying to convey) would be responsible for the regeneration of their own piece of land (and of course, they would be free and encouraged to collaborate with the regeneration of their neighbour's land also). Each of these pieces of land would then form the greater area; a kind of Permaculture Community Conservation Park. I refer to it as such because it would be my hope that ultimately these areas could be recognised as sanctuaries (protected areas) for wildlife and biodiversity and therefore worthy of conservation (and conversation - dialogue, etc). Of course that would responsibility would always lie in the hands of it's custodians.

Obviously there are many things to think about. Right now though it is a simple intention and an invitation for any who wish to express their interest in participating in a co-creative experiment (or perhaps create your own?). One in which we can migrate away from, and also to open the possibility for others to migrate away from, the current 'machine mind' and 'centrally controlled' culture that is going through it's disintegration and work towards the possibility of humans of like spirit cooperating and working together towards effectively regenerating Mother Earth back to a state of health, one peace at a time.

So to draw an analogy, imagine a jigsaw puzzle which is the larger area of land (which could potentially become a Permaculture Community Conservation Park) and each of the pieces of individual land within this defined area being the pieces of the jigsaw puzzle. We, the 'Earth Neighbours', would be helping to put it all together and then eventually connecting with other surrounding communities that would be doing the same thing (I would like to write more about this greater network but will write something later to express in my view what this would be like, but if you can imagine how the world wide web works - or even better, a mycelial network, then it might give some insight). We've already developed it into the World Wide Web so now we just need to implement it with respects to our communities. This could be a great opportunity to experiment with this. The truth is we don't have much to lose. We just need to start living it.

How did this idea come to be?

I have purchased a piece of land very close to the Serra da Estrela region in Central Portugal. What once was part of Lusitania (means 'the land of light'). Also the home of another dying breed, the shepherds of Serra da Estrela). Around me I see old pasture land, that has been abandoned, some of it for a long time. The old folks who used to work the land as conventional farmers have now either retired, left the area or passed on and left the land to their heirs whom have no interest in farming. Many of the old farmers I have spoken with express sadness in seeing how land has been left abandoned. The piece of land that I have purchased for example, had been abandoned for around 20-25 years. Most of the lands have buildings / ruins on them, some of them closer to a more habitable state than others and many have wells which seem to have plentiful water. The land is rolling hillside and has great views overlooking the Serra da Estrella on one side and expansive views towards looking towards the Caramulo Ranges along the other side.

The vision came from an idea passed onto me by my friend Leonardo. I have held this vision, or should I say this vision has held me for some time and it has not left me, so I must investigate the possibilities of it and see for myself the possibilities of this. A large part of my motivation for attempting this comes from seeing the deforestation that exists around here as a result of conventional agriculture and fires. I am also motivated by the fact that every day we are deforesting so much of our planet, wanting to make a change and knowing that I can only start where I am now, and that is here.

I see many challenges here also, one of which being that the threat of fire seems to be getting greater here. Usually they are man made. The one underlying cause that connects all these incidences together is tied to ignorance. I will go no further than explaining it that way in order to keep it short and simple. What I believe is required is that a greater awareness be applied to this issue so that awakening can happen in respects to the value of our environment and the consequences of it's mistreatment. What this means to me is that if there are more people in an area who carry a more conscious vision and attitude towards the environment then this will change others in the area also. It is like inspiration. If we are capable of being inspired by others, then surely we are also capable of inspiring others (by following our inspiration).

Let's take a little break and be served with some inspiration:

Willie Smit Restores a Rainforest
http://www.ted.com/talks/willie_smits_restores_a_rainforest.html

Geoff Lawton, Regreening the desert
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sohI6vnWZmk

What could be?

I see lots of potential here for a regeneration project such as the one I've been describing. Although a lot of the land around me has suffered much fire damage and is left abandoned, I have visions of it being converted into a lush forest and believe that with the co-operation of others this can be achieved. Sustainable Agro Forestry that could re-invigorate the area with bio-diverse life and bring with it the opportunity to create a new economy based on local community values. Something that I believe is much needed at this present moment in time. It could also serve as an example and opportunity to others in Portugal who wish to do the same thing.

The first steps ...

So, the idea is grand, but it starts with the first step which is what I'm currently working on; to find out who the owners of each of the surrounding properties are and see if they are all open to selling at prices that would be affordable to those who would wish to join this 'intentional land sharing and reforestation project'. Even if they are not willing to sell then I will investigate other possibilities with regards to agreements that can be made to allow occupation by fellow 'Earth Neighbours'.

If I see positive signs then I will look at dedicating a web site to the idea and share the information in a more detailed format. Also to publicise descriptions and photos of the lands that will be available relevant to this area. Then it will be a matter of seeing what interest there is for this and see what kind of intentioned individuals and groups it attracts. If the web site is successful then I guess it can also be used to inspire and facilitate other parties who wish to try the same thing in their area.

Is it an idea that will be welcomed by Portugal?

We will soon find out. If more of these intentional projects can arise across Portugal then perhaps we could see the beginning of a much needed revolution? People coming full circle, going back to the land, reforesting and regenerating the earth and bringing with it a new, sustainable economy based on respecting the values of Gaia. Then we can allow the old structures (economic and otherwise) to fall gracefully rather than with panic and confusion. I fear though that there isn't alot of time so if you like the idea then I would invite collaboration.

Do you like the idea?

I like the idea and I believe it's possible. Of course I'm a dreamer. If you like the idea or are inspired by this vision then I invite you to feed back, comment, share whatever ideas you have that could help take this one step closer to becoming a reality.

---
Treasure is stored in the ruined places. Rumi
---

Permaculture Gardening 21-23 Oct 2011

admin — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 13:59:24 +0000

A practical weekend of growing and eating food from an integral permaculture perspective

With Annelieke van der Sluijs and Laura Williams

Join Laura Williams and Annelieke van der Sluijs on our beautiful quinta nestled in the Serra do Açor Mountains. The weekend will be hands on, empowering you with the skills to get started and/or develop your existing garden with permaculture principles. Using permaculture you will be able to work with nature and produce the most abundant yields for the least effort.

We will examine the ecological principles which will enable you to understand and work with the energy flows in nature to your advantage. Using our gardens as a classroom we will then look at how permaculture principles are distilled from nature and apply them to specific areas of gardening.

A very important part of how we live here at the Awakened Life Project is with an emphasis on raw and wild foods; eating them, growing them, gathering them and preparing them and we would like to share this with you. So we will look at how you can incorporate more wild foods and perennials in your gardens and kitchens. We will forage on the quinta and familiarise you with the wild foods you can gather at home.

On Sunday you will apply the principles we have looked at to design and build a raised bed from scratch so you can really get started at home.

On this weekend you will:

Gain confidence to apply permaculture principles in your own garden
Find out about natural ecological principles, energy flows and how to work with them
Look at integrating wild species in your garden and menu
Get your hands dirty with a practical vegetable bed building
Have opportunities for questions and discussions on topics of interest to you and your own garden
Enjoy fresh and delicious, raw and vegetarian food and have the chance to learn some raw food techniques

The weekend will start on your arrival on Friday evening between 6 and 7pm with a shared dinner and will finish on Sunday at 4 for with tea and a raw treat!

We will enjoy 3 freshly prepared and filling vegetarian and raw meals a day.

Accommodation will be in tents and our yurt. IT MAY BE COLD AT NIGHT & RAINY SO BE PREPARED!

You will need to bring bedding, a torch, walking boots/shoes, waterproof coat, sunhat, notepad and pen/pencil. Something to sit on outside like an old cushion or mat would be really useful too.

Polyculture

Spaces are limited to 12 so to reserve your place please contact us and send a non-refundable deposit of €30. Your investment for this weekend is €85, which includes course and all meals.

We look forward to being inspired by nature with you.

In case you need more info, contact Annelieke: annelieke.van.der.sluijs@gmail.com)

Permaculture Gardening

Guest — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 14:25:37 +0000

By Laura Williams

I still have a huge smile on my face from the joy of the Permaculture Gardening course Annelieke and I facilitated this weekend. 14 wonderfully enthusiastic, committed and curious participants came and dived right into quinta life, permaculture gardening and the waterfalls!

People said they felt welcomed by the people of the Project and embraced by the beauty of the valley and everyone settled into to a relaxed and easy rhythm from the very start. The kitchen crew provided sumptuous, fresh raw and vegetarian food which is a perfect complement to the clean air, fresh water and outdoor living.

Making a Capillary Herb Container

The delicious food fuelled a combination of theory and practical. Nature was our teacher and the forest and garden our classroom as we explored the ecological principles that make nature so efficient and resilient and how permaculture is distilled from that combining natural wisdom with human innovation in order that we can evolve and create a new self-reliant culture in which we can all thrive. All of this set in the context of the vision of the Awakened Life Project; living as our true selves, beyond ego and always going somewhere new – together.

Building frame for raised bed

Filling bed with organic materials including grape skins left over from harvest!

In-between the theory came the practical and we mulched, weeded, sowed seeds, foraged for wild food. And for the grand finale created a wonderful raised bed using all local materials, most of them ‘waste’ like the left-over pressings from our grape harvest. All went in and all will be used by nature to create an abundant soil bursting with life. Everyone got their hands dirty and the finished bed was christened ‘Lola’s Paradise’ as Lola the cat seemed delighted with her new playground!!

Planting raised bed

Bed with irrigation, thanks Mim!

After the course people told us that the ratio of theory to practical was just right, the theory putting into context and explaining the practical. Many people are just about to start their own gardens or have already started and were looking for inspiration. People said they had been given a fresh perspective that makes sense and the confidence to go and get started right away in their own plots! Participants enjoyed the experience so much they requested more courses, a Part 2 or more specifics, so that may well happen next year. Everyone is keen to stay in touch and possibly help with each other’s projects on the future.

Soil Analysis

As so many people wanted to come to this course we scheduled another one for the 21^st-23^rd of October. So if you would like to come and gain the confidence to apply the principles of permaculture and experience some of the practical aspects of gardening all within the context of the Awakened Life Project then email me on arcticskua@gmail.com.

A job well done!

A huge thank you to all who came and made the weekend so dynamic, easy and enjoyable.

Laura

Permaculture Gardening: Sept 30-2 Oct, 2011

admin — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 18:41:52 +0000

A practical weekend of growing and eating food from an integral permaculture perspective

With Annelieke van der Sluijs and Laura Williams

On Sunday you will apply the principles we have looked at to design and build a raised bed from scratch so you can really get started at home.

On this weekend you will:

Gain confidence to apply permaculture principles in your own garden
Find out about natural ecological principles, energy flows and how to work with them
Look at integrating wild species in your garden and menu
Get your hands dirty with a practical vegetable bed building
Have opportunities for questions and discussions on topics of interest to you and your own garden
Enjoy fresh and delicious, raw and vegetarian food and have the chance to learn some raw food techniques

The weekend will start on your arrival on Friday evening between 6 and 7pm with a shared dinner and will finish on Sunday at 4 for with tea and a raw treat!

We will enjoy 3 freshly prepared and filling vegetarian and raw meals a day.

Accommodation will be in tents and our yurt. You will need to bring bedding, a torch, walking boots/shoes, waterproof coat, sunhat, notepad and pen/pencil. Something to sit on outside like an old cushion or mat would be really useful too.

Polyculture

Spaces are limited to 12 so to reserve your place please contact us and send a non-refundable deposit of €30. Your investment for this weekend is €85, which includes course and all meals.

We look forward to being inspired by nature with you.

In case you need more info, contact Annelieke: annelieke.van.der.sluijs@gmail.com)

Host Farm Wanted for Permaculture Diploma

admin — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 11:09:32 +0000

My name is Philine, I’m German, 25 years old and I speak German and English fluently.

I will be doing a permaculture course this November / December and I am looking for a place immediately afterwards (could also start before) where I can do 2 years permaculture practical experience for my diploma.

I’m looking for a place with nice people who have a garden / land, and would like me to do some permaculture there, and who are able to supply everything necessary for that – tools, seeds, etc.

I studied social padagogy and social work but don’t want to have a city life where I go to work in the morning and come home in the evening. I want to work where I live, and grow my own food. Ideally close to other lovely people.

I worked for one year in a garden in England as a volunteer and now this year in Portugal at Vale das Lobas, so I’m not a trained gardener, but i have some experience, and i´m longing to learn more. After the permaculture course I will already have more theoretical knowledge.

I’m a calm person, I like to be with nice people, I need nature around me. I love animals, and I am a vegan. I also like children very much and have some experience with them, so a place with children and animals is not necessary but would be nice, and I’m willing to babysit also.

I need to pay my insurance every month and also I will need a bit more for basic stuff like soap, charging my phone, buying a bus ticket, etc. so I would need a position where I would get around 100 euros per month plus food and accommodation. Internet access would also be good, so I can keep in touch with my family and friends in Germany.

If you can offer me a place, or know someone who might, please email me: philine.meessen@googlemail.com

Permacultura na RTP1

admin — Fri, 21 May 2010 08:49:34 +0000

Permacultura & Sustentabilidade

admin — Wed, 12 May 2010 16:36:24 +0000

Permacultura Urbana

admin — Wed, 12 May 2010 08:27:05 +0000

Curso de Permacultura, Lisboa

admin — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:22:13 +0000