Permaculture vs Organic vs Natural Farming: How Different or Similar Are They?

Produce from the permaculture farm of the Hyderabad Collective

In today’s world, where environmental concerns and sustainable living are increasingly important, terms like permaculture and organic farming are frequently discussed. In fact, the latter has become so synonymous with healthy food standards that whenever customers come across our Bewild Produce from our forest-friendly collectives, the first thing we’re asked is “is this organic?”. e always end up saying that it’s beyond organic; we follow permaculture. And thus begins another deep dive into what permaculture is.

Both offer alternatives to conventional agricultural practices, yet they each have distinct approaches and philosophies. It’s time we delve into the fundamental differences between permaculture and organic farming, explore other ways they differ, discuss how permaculture farming can be sustainable, and compare them to understand which approach is suitable under what circumstances.

Fundamental Differences Between Permaculture & Organic Farming

Let’s first begin with what is more popular among consumers.

Organic Farming

Organic farming is a method that supports farming without harming the natural environment. It relies on natural fertilisers and maximises the use of natural carbon. For instance, plant waste is used as fertiliser, reducing the need for synthetic chemicals. Additionally, organic farming incorporates animals for fertilisation and pest control.

While organic farming is more ethical than conventional methods, it still operates within the conventional market system. Produce is transported to markets, and farming practices are still influenced by consumer demand. Permaculture farming, on the other hand, aims for the self-sufficiency of the consumer. Let’s dive deep!

Permaculture Farming

Permaculture is more than just a farming technique; it’s a holistic design framework that revolves around the flow of energy within ecosystems. Permaculture farming is when food growing becomes a part of this ecosystem design. It emphasises creating cyclical processes where resources are continuously recycled, mimicking nature’s patterns. Permaculture seeks to support and enhance natural cycles, making systems more resilient and self-sustaining.  

The focus of permaculture farming is to use available energy to meet our needs for a healthy life, including food, water, homes, clothing, and community. This approach empowers individuals to fulfil their own needs by understanding energy and resource flows and reusing waste. This encourages food production close to where people live, such as homesteads, kitchen gardens, or even balcony gardens. This approach increases efficiency and reduces the need for long-distance transportation.

Permaculture also allows for the retrofitting of existing farms, making them more functional, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This includes building soil health, conserving existing forests, and reducing waste. In a permaculture system, energy flows are prioritised over production, with produce being a byproduct of the systems designed to optimise energy use and generate abundance. The aim is to close energy loops by retaining and reusing energy in various forms as much as possible.

In permaculture, farms become energy sources for fulfilling various needs beyond just food production. It’s not limited to farming but encourages farming as an everyday activity and promotes outdoor living. Permaculture farms are diverse, tailored to their specific location, surroundings, and the preferences of the owner, all while working in harmony with the land’s natural capabilities.

Can Permaculture Farming be Non-organic yet Sustainable?

Yes, permaculture can be non-organic while still being sustainable. The distinction lies in the focus on local sustainability and reducing environmental impact rather than strictly adhering to organic certification standards. For example, a permaculture farmer might choose to use locally available resources, even if they’re not certified organic, to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy. The emphasis is on minimising waste and environmental impact while promoting self-sufficiency and resilience.

Permaculture vs Organic Farming – How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Land?

When deciding between permaculture and organic farming for your land, it’s essential to consider your goals, resources, and commitment. Permaculture offers a holistic approach that focuses on energy flows, diversity, and self-sufficiency. It requires a willingness to invest in design and long-term sustainability. Organic farming, on the other hand, prioritises soil health and avoiding synthetic chemicals. It may be a better fit for those primarily concerned with environmental health and avoiding harmful inputs while producing food for consumption as well as the market. Both approaches have their merits and can be tailored to suit different contexts and goals. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs and values.

At the Beforest Collectives, our aim is to gradually make the 100+ acre landscapes food, water and power secure for the community linked to them. Food growing is not a matter of urgency for the community, but self-sufficiency in terms of living needs (food, water and energy) is what we are collectively building and hope to achieve in the time it takes for a generation to grow, just as our food forests are also growing. Hence, we have adopted permaculture as our guiding light to fulfil this aspiration. 

If you are looking to innovate in the field of food growing along with a community that shares your goals and values for a sustainable future, join us on our journey. Become a Beforest member!