Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective

Director Costa Boutsikaris's informative documentary centers on various designs for sustainable ecosystems, which are sometimes found in unexpected places. The governing idea is to create a symbiotic relationship between biology and technology that maximizes yield while using low-impact tools such as rain tanks and manmade bee hives. Inhabit visits a number of sites where permaculture—short for “permanent agriculture”—is working remarkably well. An outdoor laboratory in Vermont regularly experiments with different means of enhancing productivity in vegetable and fruit gardens by spreading rainwater through simple ditches running downhill, without any pipes or equipment. Another farmer uses certain plants that attract pollinators—i.e., helpful insects—that in turn enrich the soil and deliver robust kale and other crops. In the suburbs, where 40 million acres of American lawns absorb 3,000 tons of pesticide every year, some homeowners are beginning to implement permaculture practices in order to grow their own food. Some of the most interesting material here involves permaculture in cities, especially rooftops (which soak up rainwater and help decrease the volume of water flowing into gutters) and in playgrounds, where kids can healthfully snack on fruit and vegetables growing onsite. Offering an inspiring look at sustainable agriculture practices for those willing to partner with nature, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh)