This term has been floating around now for a while in this era of sustainability. What does it really mean and why is it important? The Biomimicry Institute defines the term as:
Established by biologist Janine Benyus in 1990, it looks to the natural world for ideas and inspiration for all kinds of opportunities. The goal is to create sustainable products, processes and policies, and new ways of living that are able to endure just as nature does on its own. There are over 2100 amazing case studies and products that have been created by incorporating biomimicry. The Olympic swimsuit emulating a shark's skin, a sunscreen resembling the high UV protection as hippos do, and the lotus leaf that resulted in amazing fabric protection. Here are some examples:“The science and art of emulating natures best biological ideas to solve human problems.”
- Otter Inspires dry, warm clothing that uses fewer chemicals, saves energy in manufacturing and can be recycled
- Dolphins inspire efficient flight
- Learning from Prairies How to Grow Food Sustainably
“How to Clean with out Cleaners” –Learning from the lotus plant!
The crevices of the rough texture (I bet you thought it was smooth!) of the lotus leaf traps air in which the water rolls off naturally cleaning the dirt off the surface. Biologists have learned from this phenomenon and created GreenShield, a protective fabric finish made by G3i. This consumer product is 8 times less harmful then other chemical treatments and provides excellent stain repellency. How wonderful is this!!
For more information on biomimicry and other case studies, go to the Biomimicry Institute.
-Kieffer Design Group
What a cool term!
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