PDC Principles & Ethics of Permaculture 2

Question 1

Which of David Holmgren's 12 principles is best illustrated by harvesting rainwater before it leaves a property?

Accepted Answer

Catch and store energy

Answer

Catching and storing energy refers to capturing resources like water, sunlight, and nutrients when they are abundant for use when they are scarce.

Question 2

The permaculture principle 'Apply self-regulation and accept feedback' is most directly linked to which concept from ecology?

Accepted Answer

Negative feedback loops

Answer

Negative feedback loops create self-correcting systems, which is the ecological basis for applying self-regulation and accepting feedback in design.

Question 3

A designer places high-use elements closest to the home to minimize energy expenditure. This reflects which permaculture principle?

Accepted Answer

Obtain a yield

Answer

Obtaining a yield means designing systems that reward the designer's effort, which includes placing frequently visited elements where they require the least energy to maintain.

Question 4

Holmgren's principle 'Design from patterns to details' draws inspiration from which type of observation?

Accepted Answer

Nature's large-scale patterns like water flow and wind

Answer

Starting from broad natural patterns—such as watershed shape, prevailing wind direction, or seasonal sun angles—before filling in details is the foundation of this principle.

Question 5

Which statement best describes the permaculture ethic of 'Fair Share' (also called Return of Surplus)?

Accepted Answer

Limit consumption and redistribute surplus to support Earth Care and People Care

Answer

Fair Share means setting limits on consumption and reinvesting surplus back into the system and community rather than accumulating it indefinitely.

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

PDC Principles & Ethics of Permaculture 2