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Bryn Thomas

What is it you do?
Brighton Permaculture Trust (BPT) runs a range of events and courses, from an introduction to permaculture the practice of producing food, energy etc without depleting natural resources to an advanced diploma course, as well as specific events on green architecture, gardening and fruitgrowing.

We also run eco-clubs in schools.

We are starting a demonstration garden at Stanmer Park and manage orchards there.

Why did you pick that?
Because it needs doing! We all know about the problems the environment and society are facing but what we need is joined-up, integrated solutions.

What makes you greener than other organisations?
We are about sustainability in all aspects of life. We aim to give people the skills necessary to design a more sustainable future. Some people think permaculture is just about gardening but we also look at issues such as community and architecture.

What is different about permaculture is it gets us to look at the connections between things rather than in a fragmented way - so if you're hard up and unfit you could get a better paying job, go to the gym and spend more money on better food - or you could save money, get more exercise and better food by growing your own.

What is your latest campaign?
We're organising our annual Green Architecture Day on March 1. There will be free stalls and exhibitions, plus illustrated talks which can be booked for a fee.

We're also managing our orchards and establishing our site at Stanmer Park and need volunteers.

How hard is it to be green in Sussex?
It's very difficult to achieve individually but if the groundswell of interest/concern is harnessed and people work together, then it's quite achievable.

Carbon-offsetting, yes or no?
BPT is not very impressed. Any step in the right direction is to be welcomed but we need to be looking at reduction of carbon emissions not just relocating them.

What is the biggest thing you have sacrificed to be green?
Nothing I can think of. I find a greener lifestyle is more healthy and rewarding.

I guess I could do with earning a bit more money.

Are you a climate worrier or optimistic?
Both. We can make a real difference - but will we?

What's your skill for when the oil goes?
Permaculture is a tool kit that can help us design a low energy future.

What's your greener-life philosophy?
Permaculture design is about practical ecological strategies for land, water, buildings, people and communities. It is based on the philosophy of co-operating with nature and caring for the earth and its peoples.

5:07pm Monday 14th January 2008

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