Tools commonly used in the Permaculture industry for day-to-day tasks and operations.

• Swales
• Compost bins
• Rainwater harvesting systems
• Hugelkultur beds
• Solar ovens
• Hand tools (e.g. shovels, hoes, pruning shears)
• Mulch
• Seed saving kits
• Worm bins
• Perennial plants

Common products and services typical of NAICS Code 115112-17, illustrating the main business activities and contributions to the market.

• Edible landscaping
• Natural building
• Community-supported agriculture
• Forest gardening
• Aquaponics
• Beekeeping
• Seed saving
• Renewable energy
• Water conservation
• Soil regeneration

The specific certifications, permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance requirements within the United States for this industry.

• Permaculture Design Certificate: A certification that demonstrates the holder's knowledge and skills in permaculture design principles and practices. Offered by various organizations such as the Permaculture Institute of North America (PINA) and the Permaculture Research Institute (PRI).
• Certified Naturally Grown (CNG): A grassroots certification program that certifies farmers and beekeepers who use natural and sustainable practices. CNG is a non-profit organization that offers certification for small-scale farmers and beekeepers.
• USDA Organic Certification: A certification that verifies that the products are produced using organic farming practices. The certification is offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
• Fair Trade Certification: A certification that ensures that the products are produced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. The certification is offered by various organizations such as Fair Trade USA and Fairtrade International.
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification: A certification that ensures that the products are produced using responsible forest management practices. The certification is offered by the Forest Stewardship Council.

A concise historical narrative of NAICS Code 115112-17 covering global milestones and recent developments within the United States.

• Permaculture is a sustainable agriculture system that was developed in the 1970s by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in Australia. The system is based on the principles of natural ecosystems and aims to create a self-sustaining and regenerative food production system. Permaculture has since spread worldwide, with notable advancements including the establishment of the Permaculture Institute in the USA in 1983 and the publication of the book "Permaculture: A Designer's Manual" by Bill Mollison in 1988. In recent years, permaculture has gained popularity in the USA, with the establishment of permaculture farms, community gardens, and educational programs. Notable examples include the Beacon Food Forest in Seattle, Washington, and the Permaculture Skills Center in Sebastopol, California.

The anticipated future trajectory of the NAICS 115112-17 industry in the USA, offering insights into potential trends, innovations, and challenges expected to shape its landscape.

• Growth Prediction: Growing

  Permaculture is a growing industry in the USA, with a bright future ahead. The industry is expected to continue to expand as more people become interested in sustainable living and organic farming. The demand for permaculture products and services is expected to increase as consumers become more aware of the benefits of sustainable agriculture. Additionally, the industry is likely to benefit from government initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the environmental impact of farming. Overall, the future outlook for the permaculture industry in the USA is positive, with continued growth and expansion expected in the coming years.

Recent groundbreaking advancements and milestones in the Permaculture industry, reflecting notable innovations that have reshaped its landscape.

• Regenerative Agriculture: Permaculture is increasingly being recognized as a form of regenerative agriculture, which focuses on restoring soil health and biodiversity. This approach involves using techniques such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and composting to improve soil health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
• Agroforestry: Agroforestry is a practice that combines agriculture and forestry to create sustainable and diverse ecosystems. Permaculture is a form of agroforestry that emphasizes the use of perennial crops and trees to create a self-sustaining ecosystem.
• Urban Permaculture: Permaculture is not just for rural areas, it can also be applied in urban environments. Urban permaculture involves using small spaces such as balconies, rooftops, and community gardens to grow food and create sustainable ecosystems.
• Community-Supported Agriculture: Community-supported agriculture (CSA) is a model that allows consumers to buy directly from local farmers. Permaculture farms often use the CSA model to sell their products, which helps to support local agriculture and reduce the environmental impact of food transportation.
• Permaculture Design Courses: Permaculture design courses are becoming increasingly popular, as more people seek to learn about sustainable agriculture and design. These courses teach students about permaculture principles and techniques, and provide hands-on experience in designing and implementing permaculture systems.

This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Permaculture industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Permaculture professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Material

Biochar: A form of charcoal produced from organic materials that improves soil fertility and carbon sequestration, contributing to sustainable agriculture.

Compost: An organic material that is decomposed and recycled as a fertilizer and soil amendment, crucial for enriching soil health and promoting plant growth.

Cover Crops: Plants grown primarily to improve soil health, prevent erosion, and enhance biodiversity, playing a key role in sustainable agricultural practices.

Mulch: A protective layer of material applied to the surface of soil, which helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality.

Native Plants: Plants that are indigenous to a specific region, which support local wildlife and are adapted to the local climate, enhancing biodiversity.

Natural Pest Control Products: Eco-friendly solutions used to manage pests without harming beneficial insects, essential for maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Organic Fertilizers: Natural fertilizers derived from plant or animal matter that enhance soil fertility without the negative impacts of synthetic chemicals.

Seeds: Diverse varieties of seeds that are selected for planting, which are vital for establishing crops and maintaining biodiversity in permaculture systems.

Equipment

Compost Bins: Containers used for composting organic waste, facilitating the decomposition process and producing nutrient-rich compost for soil enhancement.

Greenhouses: Structures that provide a controlled environment for growing plants, extending the growing season and protecting crops from adverse weather.

Hand Tools: Basic tools such as shovels, rakes, and hoes that are essential for planting, cultivating, and maintaining garden beds effectively.

Irrigation Systems: Systems that deliver water to crops efficiently, ensuring optimal moisture levels for plant growth and reducing water waste.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Systems designed to collect and store rainwater for irrigation purposes, promoting sustainable water use in permaculture practices.

Soil Amendments: Materials added to soil to improve its physical or chemical properties, essential for enhancing soil fertility and structure.

Trellises and Supports: Structures that provide support for climbing plants, maximizing space and improving air circulation around crops.

Service

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs: Programs that connect consumers directly with local farmers, promoting sustainable practices and providing fresh produce to the community.

Ecosystem Restoration Services: Services focused on restoring degraded ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and improving the resilience of natural habitats.

Permaculture Design Consultation: Expert services that provide guidance on designing permaculture systems tailored to specific environmental conditions and goals.

Soil Testing Services: Professional services that analyze soil composition and health, providing critical information for optimizing soil management practices.

Workshops and Training: Educational programs that teach sustainable practices and permaculture principles, empowering individuals to implement these methods effectively.

Explore a detailed compilation of the unique products and services offered by the Permaculture industry. This section provides precise examples of how each item is utilized, showcasing the diverse capabilities and contributions of the Permaculture to its clients and markets. This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Permaculture industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Permaculture professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Service

Aquaponics System Setup: This service involves designing and installing aquaponics systems that combine fish farming with plant cultivation. Clients enjoy a sustainable food production method that maximizes resource efficiency and minimizes waste.

Community Garden Development: This service assists in establishing community gardens, fostering local food production and community engagement. Clients benefit from shared resources, knowledge, and the joy of growing food together.

Composting Services: Offering composting solutions, this service helps clients turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments. This process not only reduces waste but also enriches the soil, promoting healthier plant growth and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Food Forest Design: This service focuses on creating edible landscapes that mimic natural forests. Clients benefit from diverse food sources, improved soil health, and enhanced biodiversity by integrating fruit and nut trees with other plants.

Holistic Pest Management Consulting: This service provides clients with strategies to manage pests using natural methods. By focusing on ecosystem balance, clients can reduce reliance on chemical pesticides while maintaining healthy crops.

Permaculture Design Consulting: This service involves assessing land and creating sustainable designs that integrate natural ecosystems with human needs. Clients benefit from tailored plans that enhance biodiversity, conserve resources, and promote self-sufficiency.

Permaculture Site Assessment: This service evaluates land for its potential to support permaculture practices. Clients receive actionable recommendations to optimize their land for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem health.

Permaculture Workshops: Educational workshops are offered to teach clients about sustainable practices, gardening techniques, and ecosystem management. Participants gain hands-on experience and knowledge to implement permaculture principles in their own spaces.

Rainwater Harvesting System Installation: This service involves designing and installing systems that collect and store rainwater for irrigation and other uses. Clients benefit from reduced water costs and enhanced sustainability by utilizing a natural resource.

Soil Health Assessment: Conducting thorough evaluations of soil quality, this service provides clients with insights into nutrient levels, pH balance, and organic matter content. The results guide clients in improving soil health for better crop yields and sustainability.

Sustainable Landscape Design: This service creates landscapes that are both beautiful and functional, incorporating native plants and sustainable practices. Clients benefit from reduced maintenance and enhanced ecological health in their outdoor spaces.

Material

Biodynamic Preparations: These are natural substances used in biodynamic farming to enhance soil fertility and plant health. Clients apply these preparations to improve the vitality of their crops and promote a balanced ecosystem.

Cover Crops: These crops are planted to improve soil health, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds. Clients utilize cover crops to enhance soil fertility and structure, leading to better yields in subsequent planting seasons.

Herbaceous Perennials: These plants are used in permaculture for their ability to thrive in various conditions and provide food or habitat for wildlife. Clients incorporate them into their gardens for long-term sustainability and beauty.

Herbal Remedies: These are natural products derived from plants used for health and wellness. Clients utilize herbal remedies for their therapeutic properties, promoting holistic health practices.

Native Plants: These plants are cultivated for their adaptability to local climates and ecosystems. Clients use native plants in landscaping and gardens to promote biodiversity, attract beneficial wildlife, and reduce water usage.

Natural Fertilizers: Derived from organic sources, these fertilizers enhance soil fertility without harmful chemicals. Clients use them to nourish plants sustainably, promoting healthy growth and reducing environmental impact.

Organic Mulch: Produced from natural materials, organic mulch is used to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and improve soil health. Clients apply it around plants to create a healthier growing environment while reducing maintenance efforts.

Seed Bombs: These are small balls made of seeds, clay, and compost that can be thrown into areas for planting. Clients use seed bombs to easily establish plants in challenging environments, promoting greening efforts.

Wood Chips: Used as a natural mulch, wood chips help retain moisture and suppress weeds in gardens. Clients apply them to improve soil conditions and enhance the aesthetic appeal of their landscapes.

A thorough examination of the Permaculture industry’s external dynamics, focusing on the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors that shape its operations and strategic direction.

Political Factors

Economic Factors

Social Factors

Technological Factors

Legal Factors

Economical Factors

An in-depth look at the Permaculture industry's value chain, highlighting its role, key activities, and efficiency strategies, along with its unique value drivers and competitive strengths.

Value Chain Position

Category: Service Provider
Value Stage: Final
Description: Permaculture operates as a service provider in the agricultural sector, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices that create self-sufficient ecosystems. This industry emphasizes the design and maintenance of agricultural systems that work in harmony with nature, ensuring resilience and sustainability.

Upstream Industries

Downstream Industries

Primary Activities

Inbound Logistics: Receiving and handling processes involve sourcing organic seeds and plants, along with soil amendments. Storage practices include maintaining optimal conditions for seeds and plants before planting. Quality control measures ensure that only healthy and organic inputs are used, while challenges such as pest infestations are managed through integrated pest management solutions.

Operations: Core processes include designing permaculture systems, planting diverse crops, managing water resources, and implementing sustainable practices. Quality management practices involve regular monitoring of ecosystem health and implementing best practices to ensure biodiversity and resilience. Industry-standard procedures include using companion planting and crop rotation to enhance soil health and productivity.

Outbound Logistics: Distribution methods include delivering fresh produce to local markets, restaurants, and CSA members. Common practices involve using eco-friendly packaging and maintaining freshness during transport through careful handling and timing of deliveries.

Marketing & Sales: Marketing approaches often include community engagement through workshops, farm tours, and social media. Customer relationship practices focus on building trust through transparency about farming practices and sustainability efforts. Sales processes typically involve direct engagement with customers to understand their preferences and promote seasonal offerings.

Support Activities

Infrastructure: Management systems in the industry include permaculture design software that helps plan and visualize ecosystems. Organizational structures often consist of cooperative models that facilitate shared resources and knowledge among practitioners. Planning systems are crucial for scheduling planting and maintenance activities effectively.

Human Resource Management: Workforce requirements include skilled labor for planting and maintaining diverse crops, with practices focusing on training in permaculture principles and sustainable practices. Development approaches may involve workshops and training programs to enhance workers' skills in ecological farming techniques.

Technology Development: Key technologies include soil moisture sensors and rainwater harvesting systems. Innovation practices focus on adopting new permaculture techniques and plant varieties that enhance ecosystem resilience. Industry-standard systems often involve data collection for monitoring plant health and optimizing resource use.

Procurement: Sourcing strategies involve establishing relationships with local suppliers for organic seeds, soil amendments, and tools. Supplier relationship management is crucial for ensuring timely delivery of quality inputs, while purchasing practices often emphasize sustainability and local sourcing.

Value Chain Efficiency

Process Efficiency: Operational effectiveness is measured through crop yield and ecosystem health. Common efficiency measures include tracking resource usage and waste reduction to optimize sustainability. Industry benchmarks are established based on successful permaculture practices and ecological outcomes.

Integration Efficiency: Coordination methods involve regular communication between practitioners, suppliers, and customers to ensure alignment on production schedules and quality expectations. Communication systems often include digital platforms for sharing updates on crop status and community events.

Resource Utilization: Resource management practices focus on optimizing water usage through permaculture design principles and minimizing waste through composting and recycling. Optimization approaches may involve integrating livestock into farming systems to enhance soil fertility and productivity, adhering to industry standards for sustainable agriculture.

Value Chain Summary

Key Value Drivers: Primary sources of value creation include healthy soil, diverse plant species, and effective water management. Critical success factors involve maintaining ecosystem health and adapting to market demands for organic and locally sourced products.

Competitive Position: Sources of competitive advantage include the ability to produce high-quality, sustainable food products and establish strong community ties. Industry positioning is influenced by local growing conditions and consumer preferences for organic produce, impacting market dynamics.

Challenges & Opportunities: Current industry challenges include climate change impacts, market competition, and the need for consumer education on sustainable practices. Future trends may involve increased demand for regenerative agriculture practices, presenting opportunities for permaculture to expand its influence and market reach.

A focused SWOT analysis that examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the Permaculture industry within the US market. This section provides insights into current conditions, strategic interactions, and future growth potential.

Strengths

Industry Infrastructure and Resources: The industry benefits from a growing network of community gardens, urban farms, and educational centers that promote sustainable practices. This strong infrastructure supports local food systems and enhances community engagement, with many initiatives focused on improving soil health and biodiversity.

Technological Capabilities: Innovations in permaculture design techniques and sustainable agriculture practices provide significant advantages. The industry is characterized by a developing level of innovation, with practitioners utilizing advanced methods such as agroecology and regenerative practices to enhance productivity and resilience.

Market Position: The industry holds a moderate position within the broader agricultural sector, with increasing recognition of its benefits for sustainable living. While still niche, the growing consumer interest in organic and locally-sourced food contributes to its competitive strength.

Financial Health: Financial performance across the industry is generally moderate, with many practitioners relying on grants, community support, and local sales. The financial health is supported by increasing demand for sustainable products, although initial investment costs can be a barrier for new entrants.

Supply Chain Advantages: The industry enjoys benefits from local supply chains that facilitate direct sales from producers to consumers. Strong relationships with local markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs enhance operational efficiency, allowing for fresh produce delivery and reducing transportation costs.

Workforce Expertise: The labor force in this industry is increasingly skilled and knowledgeable, with many practitioners having specialized training in sustainable agriculture and ecological design. This expertise contributes to high standards of practice and innovation, although ongoing education is necessary to keep pace with evolving techniques.

Weaknesses

Structural Inefficiencies: Some practitioners face structural inefficiencies due to limited access to resources and infrastructure, leading to challenges in scaling operations. These inefficiencies can hinder competitiveness, particularly when compared to larger conventional agricultural operations.

Cost Structures: The industry grapples with rising costs associated with land acquisition, labor, and sustainable inputs. These cost pressures can squeeze profit margins, necessitating careful management of pricing strategies and operational efficiencies.

Technology Gaps: While some practitioners are technologically advanced, others lag in adopting new sustainable practices and tools. This gap can result in lower productivity and higher operational costs, impacting overall competitiveness in the market.

Resource Limitations: The industry is vulnerable to fluctuations in the availability of natural resources, particularly water and soil health. These resource limitations can disrupt production schedules and impact the sustainability of practices.

Regulatory Compliance Issues: Navigating the complex landscape of agricultural regulations poses challenges for many practitioners. Compliance costs can be significant, and failure to meet regulatory standards can lead to penalties and reputational damage.

Market Access Barriers: Entering new markets can be challenging due to established competition and regulatory hurdles. Practitioners may face difficulties in gaining distribution agreements or meeting local regulatory requirements, limiting growth opportunities.

Opportunities

Market Growth Potential: There is significant potential for market growth driven by increasing consumer demand for organic and sustainable products. The trend towards local food systems and community-supported agriculture presents opportunities for practitioners to expand their offerings and capture new market segments.

Emerging Technologies: Advancements in sustainable agriculture technologies, such as precision farming and permaculture design software, offer opportunities for enhancing productivity and resource management. These technologies can lead to increased efficiency and reduced waste.

Economic Trends: Favorable economic conditions, including rising disposable incomes and health-conscious consumer behavior, support growth in the permaculture market. As consumers prioritize sustainability, demand for locally-sourced and organic products is expected to rise.

Regulatory Changes: Potential regulatory changes aimed at promoting sustainable practices and local food systems could benefit the industry. Practitioners that adapt to these changes by aligning with new policies may gain a competitive edge.

Consumer Behavior Shifts: Shifts in consumer preferences towards sustainable and organic products create opportunities for growth. Practitioners that align their offerings with these trends can attract a broader customer base and enhance brand loyalty.

Threats

Competitive Pressures: Intense competition from both conventional agriculture and other sustainable practices poses a significant threat to market share. Practitioners must continuously innovate and differentiate their offerings to maintain a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace.

Economic Uncertainties: Economic fluctuations, including inflation and changes in consumer spending habits, can impact demand for permaculture products. Practitioners must remain agile to adapt to these uncertainties and mitigate potential impacts on sales.

Regulatory Challenges: The potential for stricter regulations regarding land use and agricultural practices can pose challenges for the industry. Practitioners must invest in compliance measures to avoid penalties and ensure sustainable practices.

Technological Disruption: Emerging technologies in conventional agriculture could disrupt the market for permaculture products. Practitioners need to monitor these trends closely and innovate to stay relevant.

Environmental Concerns: Increasing scrutiny on environmental sustainability practices poses challenges for the industry. Practitioners must adopt sustainable practices to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

SWOT Summary

Strategic Position: The industry currently enjoys a moderate market position, bolstered by growing consumer interest in sustainable practices. However, challenges such as rising costs and competitive pressures necessitate strategic innovation and adaptation to maintain growth. The future trajectory appears promising, with opportunities for expansion into new markets and product lines, provided that practitioners can navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance and resource management.

Key Interactions

Growth Potential: The growth prospects for the industry are robust, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and organic products. Key growth drivers include the rising popularity of local food systems, advancements in sustainable practices, and favorable economic conditions. Market expansion opportunities exist in both urban and rural areas, particularly as consumers seek out environmentally-friendly options. However, challenges such as resource limitations and regulatory compliance must be addressed to fully realize this potential. The timeline for growth realization is projected over the next five to ten years, contingent on successful adaptation to market trends and consumer preferences.

Risk Assessment: The overall risk level for the industry is moderate, with key risk factors including economic uncertainties, competitive pressures, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Practitioners must be vigilant in monitoring external threats, such as changes in consumer behavior and regulatory landscapes. Effective risk management strategies, including diversification of suppliers and investment in sustainable practices, can mitigate potential impacts. Long-term risk management approaches should focus on sustainability and adaptability to changing market conditions. The timeline for risk evolution is ongoing, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard against emerging threats.

Strategic Recommendations

An exploration of how geographic and site-specific factors impact the operations of the Permaculture industry in the US, focusing on location, topography, climate, vegetation, zoning, infrastructure, and cultural context.

Location: Operations thrive in regions with rich biodiversity and access to water resources, such as the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Northeast. These areas support a variety of crops and sustainable practices, while regions with arid climates may struggle due to limited water availability. Proximity to urban centers can enhance market access for local produce, creating a symbiotic relationship between urban consumers and rural producers.

Topography: Flat or gently sloping land is ideal for establishing permaculture systems, as it allows for efficient water management and crop rotation. Hilly terrains can present challenges for planting and harvesting but can also be utilized for terracing and creating microclimates. Regions with diverse landforms can enhance biodiversity, which is crucial for permaculture practices, allowing for a variety of plants and animals to coexist and support each other.

Climate: Permaculture practices are heavily influenced by local climate conditions, with temperate regions allowing for year-round growing seasons and diverse crop production. Seasonal variations impact planting schedules and crop selection, necessitating adaptive strategies to cope with extreme weather events. Areas with consistent rainfall are particularly advantageous, while regions prone to drought require innovative water conservation techniques to sustain permaculture systems.

Vegetation: The presence of native vegetation is vital for creating a balanced ecosystem in permaculture practices, as it supports local wildlife and pollinators. Compliance with environmental regulations often requires the preservation of existing flora and the careful selection of plant species that enhance biodiversity. Effective vegetation management is essential to prevent invasive species from disrupting the ecosystem and to maintain the health of cultivated plants.

Zoning and Land Use: Permaculture operations must navigate local zoning laws that may restrict agricultural practices in certain areas, particularly near urban developments. Land use regulations can dictate the types of structures allowed and the scale of agricultural activities, impacting the design of permaculture systems. Specific permits may be required for water usage and waste management, with variations in requirements depending on the region's agricultural policies.

Infrastructure: Essential infrastructure includes access to water sources for irrigation and systems for managing organic waste. Transportation networks are critical for distributing products to local markets, necessitating proximity to roads and highways. Utility needs vary, with some operations relying on renewable energy sources, which may require additional infrastructure for energy generation and storage. Communication systems are also important for coordinating community-supported agriculture initiatives and outreach programs.

Cultural and Historical: Community acceptance of permaculture practices often hinges on local agricultural traditions and the perceived benefits of sustainable farming. Historical agricultural practices can influence the design and implementation of permaculture systems, as local knowledge and techniques are integrated into modern practices. Social considerations include fostering relationships with local communities and addressing concerns about land use changes, ensuring that permaculture initiatives align with community values and needs.

A detailed overview of the Permaculture industry’s market dynamics, competitive landscape, and operational conditions, highlighting the unique factors influencing its day-to-day activities.

Market Overview

Market Size: Medium

Description: This industry focuses on sustainable agricultural practices that integrate ecological principles into farming. Activities include designing self-sufficient ecosystems, utilizing organic methods, and promoting biodiversity to create resilient agricultural systems.

Market Stage: Emerging. The industry is in an emerging stage, characterized by growing interest in sustainable practices and increasing adoption among small to medium-sized farms. Evidence includes the rise of community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs and educational workshops.

Geographic Distribution: Regional. Permaculture operations are often found in rural areas with access to land suitable for diverse agricultural practices. Regions with strong community support for sustainable agriculture, such as the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Northeast, show higher concentrations.

Characteristics

Market Structure

Market Concentration: Fragmented. The industry is characterized by a fragmented structure with numerous small-scale farms and community gardens, each implementing unique permaculture principles, leading to a diverse operational landscape.

Segments

Distribution Channels

Success Factors

Demand Analysis

Demand Drivers

Competitive Landscape

Entry Barriers

Business Models

Operating Environment