David Holmgren, co-founder of the permaculture design system

The origins of permaculture can be traced to the book, 'Permaculture One', authored by David Holmgren and Bill Mollison in 1978. After its release, David put his energy into developing his rural smallholding - Melliodora, at Hepburn, Victoria - into a model of permaculture landuse design and into developing his consultancy, Holmgren Design Services. Later, he started teaching the Permaculture Design Certificate there, which he continues to do. Author of several books on permaculture, David has emerged over recent times as perhaps the leading commentator of the design system he helped create, a role accelerated by the release of 'Permaculture - Pathways Beyond Sustainability'. The book is a major thought piece equivalent to Bill Mollison's 'Permaculture - A Designer's Manual' (1988). David's public profile as a commentator on sustainability was improved by his 2006 tour with US peak oil campaigner, Richard Heinberg. Also building his profile have been appearances on ABC television and radio, which have been enhanced by his considered, factual style of presentation. More about David: www.holmgren.com.au

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