How to Practice Sustainable Gardening for Climate Change and Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Sustainable gardening is a vital practice dedicated to nurturing the environment while cultivating beautiful and productive gardens. It focuses on the principles of environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and biodiversity enhancement.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about various sustainable gardening techniques, their contributions to reducing carbon footprints, and practical strategies to implement them. Understanding and applying these practices is essential for the health of our planet and for creating resilient, eco-friendly gardens.
What is Sustainable Gardening?
Sustainable gardening, also known as eco-gardening, is a method of gardening that focuses on maintaining and enhancing the health of the garden ecosystem.
It’s grounded in the principles of environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and biodiversity enhancement.
Below are the key principles of sustainable gardening:
Soil Health
Sustainable gardening emphasizes the importance of soil health.
Healthy soil is rich in organic matter and beneficial microorganisms, which contribute to plant health and productivity.
According to One Acre Fund, healthy soils play a crucial role in absorbing and storing atmospheric carbon in plants. They also have the ability to retain water, which helps crops become more resilient during adverse weather conditions.
Gardeners can enhance soil health through practices such as composting, mulching, and using organic fertilizers.
Water Conservation
Sustainable gardeners aim to minimize water use by implementing efficient irrigation systems, choosing drought-tolerant plants, and designing gardens to capture and retain rainwater.
Biodiversity
A diverse garden is a resilient garden.
By planting a variety of native plants, gardeners can support a wide range of beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.
According to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, native plants are recognized for their ability to support a diverse and abundant population of bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. These plants are crucial in habitat creation and contribute to climate change mitigation as part of nature-based climate solutions.
Biodiversity also helps to control pests and diseases naturally, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Resource Conservation
Sustainable gardening involves making the most of available resources and minimizing waste. This can be achieved through practices such as composting kitchen scraps and garden waste, reusing materials, and choosing renewable energy sources for garden lighting and water features.
Organic Practices
Avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers is a key aspect of sustainable gardening. These chemicals can harm beneficial soil organisms and pollute waterways.
Instead, sustainable gardeners use organic methods to manage pests and enrich the soil.
"Sustainable agriculture is not just about growing crops, it's about caring for the soil, the water, the air, and all the living things that depend on them." ~ Indian scholar and environmental activist Vandana Shiva
How Does Sustainable Gardening Help in Reducing Carbon Footprint?
Sustainable gardening plays a significant role in reducing carbon footprint by implementing practices that minimize the use of non-renewable resources and the production of waste.
Here’s how:
Carbon Sequestration
Plants absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. This process, known as carbon sequestration, helps to reduce the overall amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, an acre of mature trees can absorb the same amount of CO2 that a car emits over 26,000 miles in a single year. Additionally, a single mature tree will absorb over 48 pounds of carbon dioxide annually and release oxygen in return.
By increasing the number of plants in your garden, you can effectively increase the amount of carbon being sequestered.
Reduced Use of Synthetic Fertilizers and Pesticides
Synthetic fertilizers and pesticides are often derived from fossil fuels. Their production, transportation, and application contribute significantly to carbon emissions.
By using organic alternatives, such as compost and natural pest control methods, gardeners can reduce their reliance on these carbon-intensive products.
A study by Washington State University and the University of Georgia, found that organic pest management methods lead to better pest control and larger plant growth compared to conventional agriculture.
The research, conducted on potato plots, showed that organic fields with a balanced mix of beneficial insects, fungi, and nematodes had 18% lower pest densities and 35% larger plants. This biodiversity prevents any single species from dominating and supports high yields without synthetic insecticides.
Composting
Composting organic waste not only reduces the amount of waste going to landfill but also prevents the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas produced when organic matter decomposes in an oxygen-deprived environment.
Additionally, compost improves soil health, enabling it to store more carbon.
Local Food Production
Growing your own food reduces the need for transportation, processing, and packaging, all of which are significant sources of carbon emissions in the food industry.
Use of Renewable Energy
Many sustainable gardens incorporate renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered lights or water features. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to a lower carbon footprint.
What Are Some Sustainable Gardening Practices That Can Help Combat Climate Change?
Sustainable gardening practices are a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. They not only reduce carbon emissions but also help to sequester carbon, improve biodiversity, and promote healthier ecosystems.
Here are some key practices that can make a significant difference:
Soil Management
Healthy soil is the foundation of a sustainable garden. It acts as a carbon sink, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Practices such as composting, mulching, and using organic fertilizers can enhance soil health, increase its carbon sequestration capacity, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Plant Selection
Choosing the right plants is crucial. Native plants are adapted to local conditions and require less water, fertilizers, and pesticides. They also support local wildlife and biodiversity.
Perennial plants, which live for several years, can sequester more carbon than annuals as they develop extensive root systems that store carbon.
Water Conservation
Overwatering not only wastes a precious resource but also contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases.
Implementing water-saving techniques such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and xeriscaping (landscaping with drought-tolerant plants) can significantly reduce water use.
Research by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources highlights several effective water conservation techniques for gardening. These techniques include mulching, planting native plants, efficient irrigation, and soil preparation.
Organic Pest Management
Chemical pesticides not only harm beneficial insects and soil health but also contribute to carbon emissions during their production and application.
Organic pest management strategies, such as companion planting, attracting beneficial insects, and using natural pest deterrents, can keep pests in check without harming the environment.
Reducing Lawn Area
Lawns require significant amounts of water, fertilizers, and mowing, all of which contribute to carbon emissions.
Replacing lawn areas with native plants, edible gardens, or wildlife habitats can significantly reduce a garden’s carbon footprint.
Composting
Composting organic waste creates a rich soil amendment, reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, and decreases the amount of waste going to landfills where it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Leading Examples of Sustainable Gardening Practices
Sustainable gardening has emerged as a vital practice to promote environmental stewardship and foster community resilience. This approach integrates eco-friendly techniques that enhance soil health, conserve water, and support biodiversity, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable living.
Here are the case studies of leading initiatives embracing sustainable gardening.
UC Davis Student Farm
The UC Davis Student Farm in California is an exemplary model of sustainable gardening, integrating education and research with practical sustainable farming practices.
The farm employs organic farming techniques, including crop rotation, composting, and water-efficient irrigation systems. These methods enhance soil health and biodiversity, key components of sustainable agriculture.
Farm to Fork: Local Produce from the UC Davis Student Farm
The farm also uses drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting to manage water resources efficiently.
Through extensive educational programs, students gain hands-on experience in sustainable farming, reinforcing the importance of environmentally friendly practices in agriculture. This integration of sustainable practices with education has made the UC Davis Student Farm a benchmark for similar initiatives worldwide.
Edible Schoolyard Project
Founded by Alice Waters in Berkeley, California, the Edible Schoolyard Project transforms school gardens into interactive learning environments that emphasize organic gardening. This project integrates garden-based learning into school curriculums, teaching students about sustainable agriculture and healthy eating.
The gardens use organic methods to grow fruits and vegetables, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability among students.
Inside California Education: Edible Schoolyard Project
Community involvement is a cornerstone of the project, with local residents and businesses supporting and participating in gardening activities. This collaboration has created a strong community bond and heightened awareness of sustainable practices, making the Edible Schoolyard Project a model for educational and community-based gardening programs.
What Is the Importance of Organic Fertilizers in Sustainable Gardening?
Organic fertilizers play a crucial role in sustainable gardening due to their numerous environmental and horticultural benefits.
Soil Health and Fertility
Organic fertilizers improve the soil structure, increase its water-holding capacity, and enhance its ability to retain and supply nutrients to plants.
Organic fertilizers also promote the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms, which play a key role in nutrient cycling and disease suppression.
Nutrient Release
Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly and steadily over time, reducing the risk of nutrient leaching and runoff that can contaminate water bodies. This slow-release property also ensures that plants receive a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, promoting healthier and more robust growth.
Plant Health
Plants grown with organic fertilizers are often healthier and more resistant to pests and diseases. This is because organic fertilizers provide a balanced supply of all the nutrients plants need, rather than just a few key ones, which leads to better overall plant health and resilience.
What Are the Benefits of Crop Rotation in Sustainable Gardening?
According to a study conducted in Finland, diverse crop rotations significantly improved spring wheat yield.
A four-year rotation (spring wheat—turnip rape—barley—pea) resulted in up to a 30% higher yield in no-tillage systems and a 13% higher yield under plowing compared to continuous spring wheat monoculture.
This means that implementing diverse crop rotations can substantially enhance crop productivity and sustainability, particularly in no-tillage farming systems, by providing better yield outcomes and potentially reducing the reliance on intensive soil management practices.
Crop rotation is a fundamental practice in sustainable gardening that offers numerous benefits to both the soil and the plants. It involves changing the type of crops grown in a particular area in sequential seasons, preventing the depletion of nutrients, and disrupting the life cycle of pests and diseases.
By incorporating crop rotation into their practices, gardeners and farmers can improve soil health, enhance plant growth, and maintain ecological balance, leading to more resilient and productive agricultural systems.
Below are more reasons why we should adopt crop rotation.
Nutrient Balance
Different plants have varying nutrient requirements. By rotating crops, gardeners can ensure a balanced nutrient profile in the soil.
For instance, legumes, such as peas and beans, fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil, benefiting subsequent crops that require high nitrogen levels, like leafy greens.
Pest and Disease Control
Many pests and diseases are specific to certain plant families.
By changing the type of crops grown in a particular area, the life cycle of these pests and diseases can be disrupted, reducing their populations and the damage they cause.
For example, rotating tomatoes with crops from a different family can help control tomato blight.
Soil Health and Structure
Crop rotation can improve soil health and structure.
Deep-rooted crops, like carrots and daikon radishes, can break up compacted soil layers, improving aeration and water infiltration. This can be particularly beneficial for subsequent shallow-rooted crops.
Weed Management
Certain crops, such as dense-leafed or fast-growing varieties, can outcompete weeds, reducing their prevalence.
By including these crops in the rotation, gardeners can naturally manage weed populations.
Biodiversity
Crop rotation contributes to biodiversity, both above and below the ground. This can attract beneficial insects and other wildlife, promoting a balanced ecosystem in the garden.
“You don’t have to save biodiversity for a living, but you can save it where you live. And you should.” ~ Author, ecologist, and conservationist Doug Tallamy
How Can I Make My Garden More Wildlife-Friendly?
Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is an integral part of sustainable gardening. It not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also contributes to local biodiversity, providing essential habitats for various species.
Here are some strategies to make your garden more appealing to local wildlife:
Create Habitats
Different animals require different habitats. Bird boxes, bat boxes, and insect hotels can provide much-needed nesting sites.
Leaving a pile of logs in a corner of your garden can create a habitat for insects, fungi, and small mammals.
Provide Food and Water
Installing bird feeders and bird baths can attract a variety of bird species. Remember to keep them clean to prevent the spread of diseases.
For insects like butterflies, consider planting nectar-rich flowers.
Avoid Chemicals
Pesticides and herbicides can harm wildlife.
Opt for organic and natural pest control methods instead. Encourage beneficial insects and birds, which are natural predators of pests.
Create a Pond
If space allows, a pond can attract a wealth of wildlife, from amphibians to insects and birds. Even a small water feature can be beneficial.
Attracting wildlife is a gradual process. It may take time for animals to discover your garden, but with patience and the right strategies, you can create a thriving wildlife haven.
How Does Water Conservation Play a Role in Sustainable Gardening?
Water conservation is a critical aspect of sustainable gardening, playing a significant role in both environmental protection and the efficient use of resources.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that water is a finite resource. Despite the fact that about 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, only 3% of it is fresh water that can be used for human activities, including gardening.
Therefore, conserving water is not just a matter of reducing utility bills, but also a responsibility towards ensuring the availability of this precious resource for future generations.
In the context of sustainable gardening, water conservation can be achieved through several strategies:
Mulching
Applying a layer of mulch around plants helps to reduce evaporation, suppress weeds, maintain soil temperature, and improve soil quality. This can significantly reduce the amount of water needed for irrigation.
Efficient Irrigation
Using efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation or soaker hoses can deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing evaporation and runoff.
Watering in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower can also reduce water loss due to evaporation.
Rainwater Harvesting
Collecting and storing rainwater for later use is another effective way to conserve water. This not only reduces the demand for municipal water or well water but also makes use of a free and readily available resource.
How Can I Reduce Waste in My Garden?
Reducing waste in your garden is a crucial aspect of sustainable gardening. It not only helps in minimizing the environmental impact but also contributes to the overall health and productivity of your garden.
Here are some strategies to effectively reduce waste in your garden:
Composting
Composting is a natural process that turns organic waste into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner. It’s an excellent way to recycle kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials.
Composting not only reduces the amount of waste going to the landfill but also enriches the soil in your garden, improving plant health and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Mulching
Mulching involves covering the soil surface with organic materials such as straw, leaves, or wood chips.
Mulch helps to suppress weeds, conserve water, and improve soil health. It also reduces the need for synthetic weed killers and fertilizers, which often come in non-recyclable plastic containers.
Reusing Garden Waste
Many types of garden waste can be reused directly in the garden. For example, fallen leaves can be used as mulch or added to the compost pile.
Pruned branches can be used to create garden structures such as trellises or stakes.
Choosing Plants Wisely
Opt for perennials over annuals wherever possible. Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, reducing the need for yearly replanting and the associated waste.
Also, consider growing plants from seeds or cuttings instead of buying new plants in plastic pots.
Reducing Plastic Use
Plastic is a major source of waste in gardens. Try to minimize its use by opting for tools and equipment made from metal or wood.
If you buy plants in plastic pots, consider returning the pots to the nursery for reuse.
What Is the Role of Permaculture in Sustainable Gardening?
Permaculture, a term coined from “permanent agriculture”, is a design system for creating sustainable human environments. It plays a significant role in sustainable gardening by promoting the harmonious integration of design and ecology in a way that benefits both the environment and the gardener.
According to a case study, permaculture practices sustained a level of soil macroaggregation similar to pasture soils, which was superior to conventional agriculture practices. This indicates better soil structure and resilience in permaculture systems.
Additionally, permaculture soils exhibited significantly higher concentrations of organic carbon (OC) and total nitrogen (N) compared to pasture and conventional agriculture soils. This increase is attributed to the substantial inputs of organic materials like manure and compost used in permaculture practices.
This means that permaculture not only enhances soil structure and resilience but also significantly boosts soil fertility through increased organic carbon and nitrogen levels, leading to healthier, more productive soils.
This sustainable approach to farming can improve long-term agricultural viability and environmental health.
The role of permaculture in sustainable gardening can be understood through its three core tenets: care for the earth, care for people, and fair share.
Care for the Earth
Permaculture emphasizes the need to respect and maintain the health of our ecosystems. It encourages practices that regenerate rather than deplete the earth’s resources. This includes building healthy soil, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity, all of which are crucial for a sustainable garden.
Care for People
Permaculture designs aim to meet human needs efficiently and sustainably.
In the context of gardening, this means growing food and other resources in a way that is both productive and sustainable. It involves choosing plants that are appropriate for the local climate and soil conditions, using space efficiently, and minimizing waste.
Fair Share
The principle of fair share involves taking only what we need and allowing surplus resources to support others.
In sustainable gardening, this could mean sharing excess produce with the community, composting organic waste to enrich the soil, or creating habitats for beneficial insects and wildlife.
How Can I Use Renewable Energy Sources in My Garden?
According to a report by the Federation of City Farms & Community Gardens, renewable energy sources have a low environmental impact and produce less pollution compared to traditional fossil fuels. They also have lower carbon emissions, thus contributing less to climate change.
Here are some ways you can incorporate renewable energy into your garden:
Solar Power
Solar energy is one of the most accessible forms of renewable energy for home gardeners. Solar panels can be installed to power garden lights, water features, or even irrigation systems. Solar-powered rain barrel pumps can also be used to distribute collected rainwater throughout the garden.
Wind Energy
While wind turbines are typically associated with large-scale energy production, small wind turbines can be used in residential settings to generate electricity for garden use. This can be particularly effective in regions with consistent wind patterns.
Biomass Energy
Biomass energy involves the use of organic material, such as plant waste or compost, to generate heat or electricity.
In a garden setting, a small biomass burner could be used to generate heat for a greenhouse or to produce biochar, a type of charcoal that improves soil health and sequesters carbon.
Energy Storage
To make the most of the renewable energy generated in your garden, consider installing an energy storage system.
Batteries can store excess energy produced during peak production times (like sunny afternoons for solar power) for use when production is low (like at night).
What Are the Best Plants to Grow for a Sustainable Garden?
When choosing plants for a sustainable garden, it’s crucial to consider several factors. These include the plant’s adaptability to your local climate, its water and nutrient requirements, and its contribution to biodiversity.
Here are some plants that are particularly suited to sustainable gardening:
Native Plants
Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, making them more resilient and less demanding in terms of water and nutrients. They also provide habitat and food for local wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
Examples include the Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) in North America, the Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos flavidus) in Australia, and the Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) in Europe.
Perennials
Perennial plants live for several years and don’t need to be replanted each season, reducing labor and resource inputs. They also help improve soil structure and prevent erosion.
Examples include Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), and Peonies (Paeonia spp.).
Edible Plants
Growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs can reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing the need for transported produce. Many edible plants can also be quite ornamental.
Examples include Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), Blueberries (Vaccinium), and Basil (Ocimum basilicum).
Drought-Tolerant Plants
These plants require less water, making them ideal for sustainable gardens, especially in dry climates.
Examples include Century Plant (Agave americana), Stonecrop (Sedum), and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).
Plants for Pollinators
Plants that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators contribute to biodiversity and help ensure productive vegetable and fruit gardens.
Examples include Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus), Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa), and Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii).
Challenges of Sustainable Gardening and How Can To Overcome Them
Sustainable gardening, while beneficial for the environment and our health, does come with its own set of challenges.
However, with the right knowledge and strategies, these obstacles can be effectively managed and overcome.
Initial Costs and Time Investment
Organic fertilizers, composting systems, and water-saving devices can be more expensive than their conventional counterparts.
Additionally, implementing new practices such as composting or crop rotation can require a significant time investment to learn and apply.
However, it’s important to view these costs as an investment in the long-term health of your garden and the environment.
Over time, these practices can actually save money by reducing the need for purchased fertilizers and water.
Additionally, many sustainable gardening practices can be implemented gradually, allowing you to spread out the costs and time investment over several seasons.
Pest and Disease Management
Sustainable gardening often involves a shift away from synthetic pesticides and towards more natural methods of pest and disease control. This can be a challenge, as natural methods often require more knowledge and vigilance to be effective.
To overcome this challenge, gardeners can educate themselves about the pests and diseases common in their area and the natural methods of control. This can include practices such as companion planting, encouraging beneficial insects, and using organic pesticides only as a last resort.
Soil Health
Maintaining soil health is a critical aspect of sustainable gardening, but it can be a challenge, especially in areas with poor native soil. Building healthy soil requires a balance of organic matter, nutrients, and beneficial microorganisms.
To improve soil health, gardeners can use practices such as composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation. These practices not only improve soil fertility but also help to prevent soil erosion and promote beneficial soil life.
Climate Adaptation
Changing weather patterns can affect plant growth and health. This can require gardeners to adapt their practices and plant choices to suit the changing conditions.
To overcome this challenge, gardeners can choose plant varieties that are adapted to their local climate and changing conditions. They can also implement practices such as mulching and water conservation to help their gardens withstand extreme weather events.
Embrace Sustainable Gardening
Sustainable gardening is a vital practice for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to the environment. By focusing on soil health, water conservation, biodiversity, and organic practices, gardeners can create resilient ecosystems that support a wide range of plant and animal life.
Key strategies such as composting, choosing native plants, and implementing efficient irrigation systems not only enhance garden productivity but also promote environmental stewardship. As you adopt these sustainable practices, remember that every small effort contributes to a larger impact. Embrace sustainable gardening to ensure a healthier planet for future generations, while enjoying the benefits of a thriving, eco-friendly garden.
Definition of Terms
Biodiversity
The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat, crucial for ecosystem health and resilience.
A garden with a variety of native plants, such as wildflowers, shrubs, and trees, supports a wide range of insects, birds, and other wildlife, contributing to a balanced and healthy ecosystem.
Composting
The process of recycling organic waste, such as food scraps and yard trimmings, into a valuable soil amendment known as compost.
Kitchen scraps like vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, and eggshells can be composted along with garden waste to create rich, dark compost that improves soil health and fertility.
Renewable Energy
Energy sourced from natural processes that are replenished constantly, such as sunlight, wind, and water flow.
Installing solar panels to power garden lights and water features reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers the carbon footprint of the garden.
Soil Health
The state of the soil in terms of its ability to sustain plant and animal productivity, maintain or enhance water and air quality, and support human health and habitation.
Healthy soil is rich in organic matter and beneficial microorganisms, which contribute to plant health and productivity. Practices like composting and mulching enhance soil health.
Permaculture
A system of agricultural and social design principles centered around simulating or directly utilizing the patterns and features observed in natural ecosystems.
A permaculture garden might include diverse plant species that support each other, rainwater harvesting systems, and composting toilets, creating a self-sustaining environment.
Eco-Gardening
A method of gardening that focuses on maintaining and enhancing the health of the garden ecosystem.
Incorporating native plants, composting, and natural pest control methods to create a garden that supports local wildlife and reduces the impact on the environment.
Resource Conservation
The practice of using resources more efficiently and responsibly to ensure their availability for future generations.
Implementing water-saving techniques such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting in a garden to reduce water use and preserve this vital resource.
Native Plants
Plants that occur naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, or habitat without human introduction.
Planting milkweed in North American gardens to support monarch butterflies, which rely on milkweed as a food source and breeding ground.
References
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- For Wildlife and Humans, Native Plants Are a Key to Climate Resilience (no date) Xerces Society. Available at: https://www.xerces.org/blog/for-wildlife-and-humans-native-plants-are-key-to-climate-resilience#:~:text=Native%20plants%20are%20known%20to
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- Study Shows Effectiveness of Organic Pest Management Methods (2010) Beyond Pesticides Daily News Blog. Available at: https://beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/2010/07/study-proves-effectiveness-of-organic-pest-management-methods/
- Geisel, P. (no date) Water Conservation Tips for the Home Lawn and Garden Analyze Your Design and Available Space. Available at: https://anrcatalog.ucanr.edu/pdf/8036.pdf
- Jalli, M., Huusela, E., Jalli, H., Kauppi, K., Niemi, M., Himanen, S., and Jauhiainen, L. (2021) 'Effects of Crop Rotation on Spring Wheat Yield and Pest Occurrence in Different Tillage Systems: A Multi-Year Experiment in Finnish Growing Conditions', Front. Sustain. Food Syst., 05 July. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2021.647335/full
- Water Science School (2019) How Much Water is There on Earth? | U.S. Geological Survey, www.usgs.gov. Available at: https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/how-much-water-there-earth#:~:text=About%2071%20percent%20of%20the
- Bureau of Reclamation (2020) Water Facts - Worldwide Water | Bureau of Reclamation, www.usbr.gov. Available at: https://www.usbr.gov/mp/arwec/water-facts-ww-water-sup.html#:~:text=3%25%20of%20the%20earth
- de Tombeur, F., Sohy, V., Chenu, C., Colinet, G., and Cornelis, J.-T. (2018) 'Effects of Permaculture Practices on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Organic Matter Distribution in Aggregates: A Case Study of the Bec-Hellouin Farm (France)', Front. Environ. Sci., 30 October. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2018.00116/full
- Renewable energy use on community gardens and city farms Why consider renewable energy? (no date). Available at: https://www.greenflagaward.org/media/1519/sfg-renewable-energy-use-on-community-gardens-and-city-farms-factsheet.pdf