When it comes to innovation, nobody does it better than nature. After all, it’s had 3.8 billion years of research and development . From the way leaves turn sunlight into energy to how bees build perfectly efficient hives, nature holds the answers to many of our design challenges. Enter biomimicry—the art and science of learning from nature to solve human problems.
What is biomimicry?
Biomimicry is exactly what it sounds like: mimicking biology. It’s about taking inspiration from the natural world to create solutions that are smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable. And let’s be real, nature’s been solving problems way before we even existed.
Examples of biomimicry in action
Let’s explore some fascinating ways biomimicry is already shaping our world:
1) Velcro: Ever wonder how Velcro was invented? In the 1940s, a Swiss engineer noticed how burrs stuck to his dog’s fur. Inspired by the tiny hooks on the burrs, he created the hook-and-loop fastening system we all know today. Nature wins again.
2) Wind turbine efficiency: The bumpy edges (tubercles) on humpback whale fins improve aerodynamics and reduce drag. Engineers applied this principle to wind turbine blades, making them more efficient at capturing wind energy.
3) Brighter LED lights: The unique structure of a firefly’s exoskeleton enhances the amount of light emitted. Scientists have used this to make LED lights up to 55% more efficient, reducing energy consumption.
What can biomimicry teach us about sustainability?
Nature is the ultimate zero-waste system. Leaves fall, decompose, and feed the soil for new growth. Predator-prey relationships keep ecosystems balanced. There’s no landfill in a rainforest. Biomimicry helps us design products, systems, and processes that align with these sustainable principles.
How to see biomimicry in action
Biomimicry isn’t just for scientists or designers—it’s a mindset. And the best way to tap into it? Get curious. Nature is full of brilliant designs hiding in plain sight.
1) Go outside and observe. Ever noticed how mushrooms grow on old logs, breaking them down into nutrients? Or how a spider’s web is light but incredibly strong? Nature is full of genius engineering—start paying attention.
2) Find inspiration in natural structures. Look at honeycombs, seashells, or the veins in a leaf. There’s a reason nature uses these patterns—they’re incredibly efficient and resilient.
3) Dive into resources like ‘Ask Nature.’ Websites like AskNature.org showcase how organisms have solved problems we struggle with today. Need better water filtration? Check out how mangrove trees do it. Looking for energy-efficient cooling? Termite mounds have cracked the code.
4) Experiment with nature’s lessons. Try composting and see how organic waste transforms into nutrient-rich soil. Observe how plants bend toward sunlight—what does that tell us about optimising solar energy? Simply noticing these small wonders can change how you think about design, waste, and efficiency.
The bottom line
Biomimicry is a reminder that nature already has the answers—we just need to pay attention. By designing with nature in mind, we can create products that not only solve problems but do so in harmony with the planet.
Want to dive deeper into how nature inspires innovation?
Tune in to our LET’S LIVE CLEAN podcast below:
