Permaculture Principle #11

Use edges and value the marginal.

Permaculture suggests that the interface between things is where the most interesting things take place. These are often the most valuable, diverse and productive parts of the system. In life and work, we can try to more effectively use our resources including the edges.

“That word ‘marginal’ has come to mean ‘of no value’. But that’s in fact wrong. It’s those things which are valuable in providing back-up.” - David Holmgren

It is this diversity that provides resilience and should be cherished. In nature, in life, in art.