1.

Observe and Interact

Thoughtful observation precedes thoughtful action. Design with a sense of place.

2.

Catch and Store Energy

Harness and store resources when they are abundant (like rainwater, solar power, biomass).

3.

Obtain a Yield

Ensure that your systems provide useful rewards—food, energy, or wellbeing.

4.

Apply Self-Regulation and Accept Feedback

Reduce dependence on external inputs and adapt based on observation.

5.

Use and Value Renewable Resources and Services

Make the best use of nature’s abundance and reduce consumption of non-renewables.

6.

Produce No Waste

“Waste” is a resource in the wrong place. Reuse, repurpose, recycle, compost.

7.

Design from Patterns to Details

Understand the big picture before zooming in on specifics—like nature’s fractal patterns.

8.

Integrate Rather Than Segregate

Foster beneficial relationships between elements. Cooperation beats isolation.

9.

Use Small and Slow Solutions

Smaller systems are easier to maintain and more resilient. Think local and low-tech.

10.

Use and Value Diversity

Diversity creates resilience and reduces vulnerability to pests, diseases, or market shifts.

11.

Use Edges and Value the Marginal

The interface between things is where the most interesting events take place—like a forest edge.

12.

Creatively Use and Respond to Change

Change is inevitable. Use it as a catalyst for evolution, rather than a problem to resist.