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