Biomimicry
Nature-based Solutions.
Biomimicry comes from the Greek words ‘bios’ (life) and ‘mimikos’ (mimic). The application of biomimicry analyses the function of nature to find solutions for human design challenges. Nature can provide answers to many challenges we face in design, for example, when designing wind turbines, engineers were inspired by the ridges on humpback whale fins which allows for a more agile movement. Natural systems can also influence our production processes, as with the circular economy model, which employs self perpetuating solutions that reflect the resourcefulness of the natural world.
Why is biomimicry important?
Biomimicry is an important aspect of sustainable development as it can help to solve challenges, while reducing waste and implementing circular practices. The natural world is inherently sustainable. Organic structures and processes have been tried and tested through years of evolution and can therefore provide great inspiration for quality products. Biomimicry supports a holistic design outcome, and through following guidance from the natural world, we can vastly improve the materials, buildings and processes we use.
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What could we learn from Indigenous thinking?
Biomimicry is not a new concept, Indigenous people have been utilising nature-based solutions well before the late 90’s when the term was first coined. In fact, the oldest continuous culture, Aboriginal Australians, have always been looking to nature for solutions. A key philosophy of Aboriginal people is that, if we understand that we are animals and care for nature, nature will in turn look after us. This wisdom is crucial to utilise in the business world in order to fight climate change-related challenges.
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How can the construction industry utilise biomimicry?
The construction industry already utilises nature-based solutions in many ways, such as foundations, which perform almost the same function as the roots of a tree. Biomimicry in construction can also help projects achieve sustainability credentials such as BREEAM and LEED, while also adding to the resilience of the built environment. There are three key ways to incorporate biomimicry into the industry;
1.?????Materials
There are many companies that are developing building materials inspired by nature, or utilising natural resources for their natural qualities. For example, utilising bamboo for buildings in warmer climates due to its natural antibacterial properties helps to reduce bacterial build up.
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2.????Structures
The architectural world has embraced biomimicry as many ground-breaking building designs are inspired by nature. One of the most recognised and celebrated architects, Antoni Gaudí, took much inspiration for the natural world and believed “nothing is art if it does not come from nature.”
3.????Systems
Solutions to traffic systems are currently being developed with the use of biomimicry.?Scientists are developing algorithms for self-driving cars which mimic the way ants organise themselves, as they move in patterns which ensure there is never a traffic jam.
Example: The Gherkin, London
There are many notable buildings which were designed through biomimicry principles including; the Eastgate Centre (Zimbabwe), the Esplanade Theatre (Singapore), and the Eiffel Tower (France). Here in the U.K, The Gherkin is a well-known building which is famously inspired by nature. The structure was based on a type of sea sponge which has evolved to filter and deflect strong currents with its latticed, cylindrical shape. There are also gaps in the floors of the building to create a breathing effect which circulates air between levels, allowing for passive heating and cooling.
Ultimately, through utilising principles from biomimicry, many solutions for modern design challenges can be found. Finding organically informed solutions can also result in improved sustainability practices and help reduce climate change related issues. Biomimicry offers a practical way to approach business operations and allows businesses to work in harmony with the natural world.