​Growing Global Ecoliteracy Through Permaculture Education


Beyond Organic Design is launching the 1 Million Designers Initiative—a global effort to cultivate ecoliteracy and design thinking in one million young people through the lens of permaculture.
​
This vision was sparked by a simple observation: there are approximately one million certified permaculture designers in the world today. What if we could match that number by preparing the next generation of ecological designers—students who grow up understanding natural systems, community care, and climate solutions from the start?​

​
At a time when the climate crisis is reshaping lives and landscapes, many young people are overwhelmed by uncertainty. Ecoliteracy offers a way forward. It equips students with the ability to read the landscape, think in systems, and design practical solutions rooted in care for Earth and each other.
​
Through school-based programs, teacher training, and international partnerships, the 1 Million Designers Initiative brings permaculture education directly into classrooms and learning communities.
​
What it is
​
​What it isn't
​
  • An adaptable 10-part curriculum introducing permaculture and ecoliteracy

  • A global network of teachers and learners

  • A youth-centered effort to scale regenerative education

  • A flexible program for schools

  • A chance to pilot materials and give feedback
  • Not a professional development course

  • Not a certification program

  • Not a one-size-fits-all curriculum

  • Not designed for multiple age groups per teacher (one age group per teacher)

​Our ideal partner
​
  • Has a background or strong interest in gardening, ecology, sustainability, or agriculture

  • Is currently teaching in a school, forest school, homeschool or community setting, formal or informal

  • Can dedicate time to piloting the materials with one age group

  • Values experiential, place-based learning

Why join us?
​
🌱 Receive a ready-to-use 10-part curriculum to introduce permaculture and ecoliteracy

🌍 Join a global network of teachers and learners advancing regenerative education

🧭 Support students with real-world skills in systems thinking and ecological design

📚 Access resources and community support rooted in permaculture principles

🤝 Connect with like-minded educators and organizations around the world

🛠️ Help shape the future of youth permaculture education by piloting and sharing feedback

​🌾 Reconnect learning with land, community, and nature
​
​
​
Click HERE to take the first step!

​​

FAQ​

​​Q: Is this a professional development program?
A: No. This is a student-facing curriculum designed for teachers to use with their learners.

Q: Can I teach more than one age group?
A: No. Each participating teacher will work with only one age group to ensure consistent feedback and implementation.

Q: Do I need to be a permaculture expert?
A: No. A background in sustainability, gardening, or environmental education is helpful, but you don’t need to be an expert.

Q: Who can participate?
A: Teachers in schools, forest schools, homeschool and community education programs—anywhere in the world.
​
Q: What do I need to do?
A: Use the curriculum with your students, provide feedback, and share photos or stories of your experience (with consent).
​
​