Introduction: A Life Transformed by Nature
Mohammed Saleh’s story is one of radical transformation—from a city-dwelling artist to a permaculture pioneer reshaping urban landscapes in Palestine. In this deep dive, we explore his journey, philosophy, and the projects that define Mustam Ecodesign.
Early Life and Career Shift
Born in Nazareth and raised in Jerusalem, Mohammed’s early life was far from the ecological world. With a background in psychology and musicology, he initially pursued a conventional career in video editing. However, a growing disconnect with urban life led him to pen lyrics about “moneyless living” and wilderness—a prophetic nod to his future.
In 2009, a move to Turkey with his partner became the catalyst for change. A chance suggestion from a friend introduced him to WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), where he spent three transformative years in the Çamlıbel Mountains.
Discovering Permaculture in Turkey
Mohammed’s Turkish journey began at an ecological education center nestled among 200+ olive trees. Tasks like chicken coop design and solar panel maintenance taught him hands-on sustainability. He recalls:
“I realized how disconnected I was… Cutting wood, composting, and graywater systems became my new language.”
Surrounded by global volunteers—from French builders to German nomads—he embraced a philosophy of “I can,” shedding the limitations of his minority upbringing. This period also introduced him to Masanobu Fukuoka’s The One-Straw Revolution, igniting his passion for natural farming.
Founding Mostadam Ecodesign: Mission and Vision
Returning to Jerusalem in 2015, Mohammed faced a stark contrast: bustling streets instead of mountain rivers. Determined to bridge sustainability and urban life, he launched Mostadam Ecodesign (Arabic for “sustainable”).
Starting with a modest family garden, he blended permaculture principles with recycled materials. His first paid project—a playground using shipping pallets and reclaimed tires—showcased his ethos: 90% recycled, 100% functional.
Key Projects and Philosophy
Urban Gardens in Schools
Mustam’s flagship projects include rooftop aquaponics, geodesic greenhouses, and sensory pathways in East Jerusalem schools. One standout is a “rainbow corner” featuring white clover lawns and flower beds, teaching children ecosystem interdependence.
Recycling and Community Hubs
Collaborating with local artisans, Mohammed helped establish workshops for upcycling materials. A close friend’s recycling hub became a model for community-driven sustainability, proving that “start small” can yield big impacts.
Philosophy: Inside-Out Regeneration
For Mohammed, sustainability begins with mental shifts:
“You can’t heal nature without healing people. We teach yoga and mindfulness alongside gardening—it’s all connected.”
Teaching Permaculture and Future Goals
Mohammed’s work extends beyond design. He’s taught permaculture in Wales, Jericho, and refugee camps, emphasizing adaptability. His upcoming Arabic-language PDC (Permaculture Design Course) aims to democratize knowledge:
“In the Arab world, we need localized solutions. My course will blend tradition with permaculture science.”
He dreams of a “nature sanctuary” where people heal through agroecology and holistic practices.
Overcoming Challenges: Sustainability in Conflict Zones
Operating in occupied territories brings unique hurdles—limited resources, political instability. Yet, Mohammed thrives on constraints:
“We built a graywater system with hand tools. Scarcity breeds creativity.”
His advice? Start small, observe, and iterate. Even a balcony garden can spark change.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Reconnect
Mohammed’s story is a testament to permaculture’s power—not just to grow food, but to rebuild communities and hope. As he puts it:
“Nature taught me wind isn’t an enemy; it’s energy. Every element has value when you see the connections.”
Join the Movement
Follow Mustam Ecodesign’s work or start your own project. Remember: sustainability isn’t a privilege—it’s a practice rooted in creativity and care.
Explore More
- Mostadam Ecodesign’s Facebook Page
- Permaculture for Refugees Initiative
- The One-Straw Revolution by Masanobu Fukuoka
Let’s grow a greener world, one seed at a time. 🌿
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Mohammad Saleh, based in Jerusalem, has a background in Psychology and Musicology. His journey into sustainability took a significant turn when he lived in and later on managed an off-the-grid ecological educational center in Turkey. Immersed in hands-on learning, he deepened his understanding of sustainable living, alternative education, and regenerative design. This transformative experience led him to establish Mostadam Eco-Design upon returning to his home country, where he has spent the past decade designing, teaching, and implementing ecological and urban gardening systems tailored for the Mediterranean climate.
As a certified Permaculture teacher and designer accredited by the UK Permaculture Institute, Mohammad has trained thousands of people of all ages, empowering them with practical tools for sustainable living. He specializes in Urban-gardening, aquaponics, raised beds, water-saving gardens, water harvesting, Geodomes, earthworks management, rooftop and vertical gardens, greenhouses, dry toilets, mandala gardens, composting, and bioremediation. His designs offer solutions for landless individuals, eco-activists, students, gardeners, and small-scale farmers, blending creativity with ecological resilience.
Beyond design, Mohammad collaborates with organizations worldwide, from NGOs and schools to art centers, companies, and farms. He offers permaculture design courses (PDCs) and works with diverse groups, including teachers, students, professionals, and farmers, guiding them in regenerative practices. His multidisciplinary approach bridges academic knowledge with practical experience, making sustainability accessible to different communities.
In addition to his work in permaculture, Mohammad is also an eco-artist, using nature as his medium to raise environmental awareness. His projects include Refugee camps’ Gardens, Upcycled Refuge Garden, healing gardens designed with sound frequencies, bioremediation research for detoxifying land.
From ecological landscapes to immersive learning experiences, Mohammad’s work is a testament to the power of sustainable design in transforming both environments and mindsets.
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