Permaculture Principle #2: Catch and Store Energy

​One of the luxuries of modern living is that many of us do not have to think about the sources of our abundance. We can often take for granted plentiful fuel and food. Developing a mindset of sustainable living, however, invites us to think about energy differently. Specifically, Permaculture Principle #2 encourages us to catch and store energy to boost sustainability and save resources for leaner times and future needs. To catch and store energy--in its various forms--puts into action the age-old advice to make hay while the sun shines. 
 
In Nature, we see myriad examples of catching and storing energy. Trees store energy in roots during the dormant season, bears add layers of fat prior to hibernation, and squirrels squirrel away nuts for the winter. Gardeners know, too, that plants like irises need their foliage to carry on photosynthesis after flowering in order to catch and store energy for the next season’s flowers.
 
When we humans catch and store energy, we manifest the value of saving our surplus, whether it’s wood for heating fuel or fruit for winter nutrition. When we gather and store energy, we are planning for resilience in leaner times, supporting stable supplies of the things we need, and working to preserve resources for ourselves and future generations.
 
Examples of Catching and Storing Energy:

• Working throughout the summer to chop and stack wood for burning during the winter
• Harvesting the bounty of orchards and gardens and then processing for later use. Options might include freezing, canning, fermenting, drying, and more. And if you’re not able or interested in home gardening, supporting farmers’ markets or local CSAs is a great alternative.
• Using fallen leaves, woodchips, and compost to nourish soil as these energy-laden materials decompose
• Catching and storing natural energy sources like the wind, water, or sun that can provide off-grid electricity
• Harvesting rainwater for use in gardens and beyond

 
Take Action: 
Which types of catching and storing energy intrigue you the most? Pick one you have not tried and research how to get started in a way that makes sense for you.

​Contributor: Jennifer Montgomery, Board Member