part 1

continuous improvement + stacking functions as illustrated by a wood stove: part 1 in the journal of small work*

How can we live well within the limits of our living systems? This new series is a response to overwhelming urgency. In the face of the daunting prospect of transforming how we live, let’s start where we are, with what we’ve got, and build from there.


This first journal pairs the useful, comforting framework of continuous improvement (kaizen) with the principles of multiple and stacking functions (permaculture), redesigning our systems to meet several needs at once. The wood stove illustrates how these frameworks can help us adapt to rapid change without losing our balance. We can apply these patterns all over.

What continuous, incremental action are you already taking towards living regeneratively?

What stacking and multiple functions will you add next?

Your small work inspires us all to action.

For more writing that informs the journal of small work* find the latest letters here, and come talk to me as I write socially on instagram. With tremendous thanks to our patrons for their support, it means the world. You can contribute to the production of new episodes of the small work* here . We hope you love the new series.