Parmu Ökoküla MTÜ

Parmu Ecovillage (Parmu Ökoküla) is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that exists to promote and foster a holistic approach to restoring the environment through regenerative farming, gardening, forestry and Gaia Education (Gaia School is a private school that follows the principles of the international Ecovillage Design Education (EDE) program of Gaia Education). We strongly believe that if we are to head off to environmental disasters looming ahead, all young people, not just future scientists, farmers or foresters, must begin to acquire a basic understanding of the fundamental processes through which our ecosystem functions. It will be soon unacceptable for any young person to remain environmentally illiterate and thus ignorant of these processes and our connection to them. Involving young people through voluntary activities is a great way to raise their awareness and understanding of the importance of maintaining and enhancing the well-being of the environment as well as introduce them to the knowledge of how to make decisions that simultaneously consider economical, social and environmental realities, both short and long term. Parmu Ecovillage started organising voluntary activities in 2006. Since then we have held over 30 events with more than 200 participants. Parmu Ecovillage conservation holidays (called talgud in Estonian) consist of voluntary conservation work, getting to know the area, a hike and meeting with the local farmer, ranger or guide.