Permaculture with Synthetic Biology
Join us for a hands‑on exploration of permaculture practices enhanced by synthetic biology. This event is for anyone interested in radical ecology, open‑source science, and DIY innovation. All donations go directly to the Carbocene Industries nonprofit to support its mission of planetary carbon drawdown and ecological restoration.
Suggested donation
$20–$40 sliding scale (donations support Carbocene Industries; contribute at https://carbocene.org/support)
What you'll experience
- **Biochar production demo and Terra Preta creation** Learn how to turn locally sourced biomass (bring your own!) into high-quality biochar using simple, low-tech methods. Begin the process of making anthropogenic dark earth on site, permanently sequestering carbon and closing nutrient loops. Participants welcome to take home biochar.
- **Soil improvement with biochar, pigeon guano, and compost:** See how on-site produced guano and compost enriches biochar-amended soils for arid-adapted crops.
- **Treillage & support structures:** Work with Mesopotamian giant reed (Arundo donax) stakes and Harakeke (Phormium tenax) fiber to build resilient trellises.
- **Polyculture planting & drought-adapted crops:** Explore interplanted crops of blue corn, desert squash, desert melon, sorghum, tepary bean, black-eye pea, and more, observing polyculture principles in action.
- **Short-rotation coppice with engineered trees:** Preview upcoming interplanting of fast-growing, synthetically enhanced trees for continual biochar feedstock.
- **Greenhouse tour:** Visit the production greenhouse for Carbocene's photosynthesis-enhanced aspen and learn about propagation of diverse plant species.
- **Visit the only bioengineered trees plantable without regulatory barriers in the US:** See Carbocene's pioneering trees and, for an additional donation of $50, receive a tree with detailed care instructions to take home.
Who should come
- DIY biologists, biohackers, and citizen scientists
- Permaculture designers and urban farmers
- Artists and makers interested in bio-materials (fibers, resins, dyes)
- Anyone curious about synthetic biology, carbon drawdown, and community-scale food production
What to bring
- A small amount of dry biomass (wood chips, stalks, leaves) for the biochar demo (optional but encouraged)
- Gloves, water bottle, and a notebook for sketches or notes
- An open mind and willingness to share knowledge
Contact & RSVP
Stay tuned for the final date, time, and contribution details. Email: [email protected]
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Let's cultivate syntropic resilience.