WHAT changes can we expect to see in the new millennium? Reporter Paul Wilkinson has talked to local people who are working to influence the world we live in. This week he talks to a local man who is an expert in permaculture...

IS there such thing as a science of common sense?

Dr Rod Everett believes there is.

Permaculture is a word that sounds a little mysterious but its principles are profoundly simple.

It's about improving the quality of life in an environmentally friendly way.

A worthy cause for sure but permaculture's main concern is with common sense practicalities - how can we best use our resources?

It examines all aspects of modern life and comes up with innovative solutions to problems which, when put into practice, can function like poetry in motion.

Dr Everett has been involved in the permaculture movement since its shoots first appeared in the 1970s. And he's seen many examples of it working and working well.

"There's a pub which has two permaculture designed ponds next to it. Drinkers sit outside enjoying a pint not knowing that the ponds, which are covered in lovely water lilies, are actually filtering raw sewage."

Closer to home on his working farm in Roeburndale, Dr Everett is busy teaching permaculture design courses and experimenting with wind and solar power and sustainable methods of agriculture.

"I'm currently trying a rotation system in which manure rich land used to keep sheep is then used to grow potatoes, then brassicas and then turned over to clover which is a one of the best nitrogen fixers for the soil. I'm trying to get good results and at the same time care for the land, which is what sustainability is all about."

Permaculture has developed into a complete ecological design system that looks to get more for less in all areas of life - from growing food to designing houses and developing local communities.

Even big business is beginning to take a fresh look at the principles of permaculture - it's principals can be used to design workspaces and improving work practices.

And after all - a lot of it is just good old-fashioned common sense.

"The essence of permaculture is to design an ecological way of living in our households, gardens, communities and businesses. We study nature, try to emulate it and work with it rather than coerce it to meet our own short-term ends. It's about being resourceful and self-reliant and trying to find alternatives and solutions to the many problems that are facing us."

All around the world incredibly inventive and imaginative people are working to finds ways to make and do things better with the minimal environmental impact.

Dr Everett explains: "It can be as simple as putting you cooker in the best place, recycling household waste or growing your own herbs and vegetables. Or it could involve designing a house from scratch or generating urban renewal. On my permaculture design courses I get people from all walks of life - from town planners and architects to pensioners and the unemployed. It's a philosophy which encourages people to think carefully about the how they use resources and hopefully discover fresh and creative approaches to life."

As society continues to consume more and more, regardless of the long term consequences, permaculture's time will surely come.

To find out more or to book a place on one of the many permaculture courses, call Rod Everett on 015242 22214.