Permaculture-Inspired Farms in Quebec: An Economic and Social Overview

Abstract

Permaculture is a design approach to human settlements that promotes diverse, regenerative and resilient agricultural systems. It appears this movement could play an important role in the transition from industrial to a more ecologically sound agriculture, however it has been the object of very few systematic inquiries, in particular with respect to its economic feasibility. Assessing the financial viability of permaculture systems will be crucial to the widespread implementation of this approach. Moreover, understanding farmer motivations to adopt this form of agricultural management as well as their challenges and perceptions will be useful in guiding future policies that drive permaculture production. The objectives of this study are: (1) to explore, through the case study of Quebec, Canada, the types of agroecosystems implemented by permaculture-inspired farmers; (2) to analyze the profitability of permaculture-inspired agroecosystems; (3) to assess farmer motivations, challenges and perceptions with respect to permaculture. I interviewed a total of 35 farmers, selected through a snowball referral sampling approach. Permaculture farms showed high levels of system and income source diversity, systems integration and very low human intervention levels at times. A high proportion of permaculture farms in the sample were profitable. An organic certification, selling value added products and restricting livelihood diversity were linked to greater profitability. No correlation was found between farm size and economic viability. Subjects in this study were highly motivated by conservation, lifestyle and altruistic values, and most challenged by labor and economic constraints. Given the apparent ecological, economic and social benefits of permaculture, I propose some recommendations to Quebec policy makers in order to encourage this approach to farming.