To start with, I checked out the Environment School at SuiteU and decided to start with Ecological Gardening: Organics and Beyond .
This two week course delves into the increasingly popular and ecologically sound practice of permaculture. In his own words, "Permaculture is the conscious design of sustainable human systems which have the diversity, stability and resilience of natural ecosystems." (Course: Ecological Gardening: Organics and Beyond, Lesson 1). The author, Bob Ewing, is a certified permaculture designer and runs his own consulting business while also researching and writing articles in this organic area.
This course takes us through our own misconceptions about not just agricultural food growth and process, but delves into the ground, water and air depurification. Like the patient grandparent holding the toddler's hand, Ewing guides us from our past mistakes and helps us find a proper path for our own growth and maturity. Throughout the course he urges us and all of society to take responsibility for our Future, but he does not just leave us with an admonishing finger - he actually gives us steps we can follow to secure our future! This, coupled with excellent resources, gives us what many other environmentalist courses and speakers cannot - a way to actually implement the words without drastically changing our lifestyle all at once. Similar to nature, we slowly acclimatize while making the necessary changes so crucial to our environment and potential growth.
Throughout the lessons, Ewing encourages participation and feedback with hands-on assignments designed for not just the novice, but also as reminders for the seasoned professional to always take another look around at the environment, and see could be improved. Can you tell me offhand, without looking outside - how many trees - the lifeblood of shade and oxygen, shelters for animals and birds, are on your property? Do you plan on planting more? Why have you not thought about it?
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