May 23, 2024
Thierry Lison is a market gardener, permaculture teacher, AND marine biologist from French Polynesia. In this episode we explore how Thierry's career in marine biology and a passion for surfing led him to focus on the devastating effects of industrial agriculture on coral reefs, and ultimately start a market garden on a tiny tropical island. His farm, Vaihuti Fresh, blends the principles of permaculture with the strategies of high-yield market gardening while making a positive social impact in the unique context of the Polynesian islands.
From coconut-peat soil mix and crabs as garden pests to worldwide biodiversity loss; this wide ranging conversation will give you plenty to think about!
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Timestamps
[5:51] Background in marine biology studying coral reefs
[9:45] Starting a farm in Polynesia
[14:59] Link between permaculture and market gardening
{24:01] Crabs as garden pests
{24:49] Research with biochar, coconut husk, and mycorrhizal fungi
[34:14] Rewarding farmers for benefitting ecosystem
[36:00] Loss of biodiversity
[38:46] Cooperative cold-storage and nurseries on the island
[43:31] Making coconut-peat
[49:25] Unique history and economy of Polynesia
[50:12] Covid as turning point for food sovereignty
[55:39] Conventional farmers transitioning to organic
[1:02:05] Education on the farm
[1:07:08] Unique challenges of farming on a tropical island
[1:17:05] Indigenous tradition on the islands
[1:26:10] Permaculture Design Handbook by Bill Mollison
[1:26:42] Jean-Marc Jancovici's 'World Without End'
[1:33:16] Quote from Charles Eisenstein
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Guest Social Media Links
Thierry:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vaihuti/
Website: https://vaihutifresh.com/
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
