PDC Principles & Ethics of Permaculture 5

Question 1

A community establishes a seed library where members contribute and borrow seeds freely. Which ethic does this most directly embody?

Accepted Answer

Fair Share by redistributing biological surplus

Answer

A seed library redistributes surplus genetic resources back into the community, exemplifying Fair Share by ensuring access rather than private accumulation.

Question 2

Which scenario best demonstrates the principle 'Use slow and small solutions' at a watershed scale?

Accepted Answer

Installing many small check dams up-slope to slow and sink water across a catchment

Answer

Many small interventions distributed across a watershed recharge groundwater and reduce peak flood flows more resiliently than a single large infrastructure project.

Question 3

A designer notices that a 'problem' blackberry thicket is stabilizing a slope, feeding birds, and producing food. Acting on this observation reflects which principle?

Accepted Answer

Creatively use and respond to change

Answer

Reframing the blackberry as a multi-functional resource rather than a pest demonstrates creative response to what the land is already offering.

Question 4

In permaculture, 'succession' is most directly relevant to which principle?

Accepted Answer

Creatively use and respond to change

Answer

Recognizing and working with ecological succession—from pioneer species to climax communities—is a key way designers creatively use natural change rather than fighting it.

Question 5

Which statement correctly distinguishes permaculture 'principles' from permaculture 'ethics'?

Accepted Answer

Ethics are the moral foundation; principles are practical design guidelines derived from them

Answer

Ethics (Earth Care, People Care, Fair Share) provide the 'why'—the moral compass—while principles provide the 'how'—practical, observable guidelines for turning ethics into design decisions.

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

PDC Principles & Ethics of Permaculture 5