Permaculture, Self-sufficiency , Closed biological system
Strengthening farmers’ involvement and empowerment in the transition towards agroecology
The project aims to develop a self-regenerating agroecosystem based on the principles of permaculture, self-regulation, and closed biological cycles. It envisages the establishment of a 10-hectare nut-based eco-orchard with integrated open-field cultivation of leafy greens and livestock components as functional elements of the ecosystem, ensuring efficient circulation of nutrients, energy, and organic biomass.
The agroecosystem is formed within the natural Forest-Steppe landscape and borders wilderness areas, contributing to biodiversity conservation, increased ecological resilience, and the minimization of anthropogenic impact. The socio-economic component is implemented through the deployment of modular mobile mini-farms under the “Kraplia” project, which combine local food production with the use of renewable energy sources, particularly biogas, while engaging local communities in sustainable agricultural practices.
The farming enterprise was established in 1992. The land holding comprises 40 hectares of agricultural land, including 23 hectares of arable land and 17 hectares of pasture, which constitutes a natural oasis amid cultivated fields. The pasture is not used for grazing but functions as a patch of wild nature inhabited by native wildlife of the Forest-Steppe zone.
The land is held under perpetual use rights with the option of purchase. The farm is located in the suburban area of the city of Kharkiv and operates a mixed farming system.