The concept of biomimicry is the practice of studying nature’s designs, processes, and strategies to solve human problems. This approach involves observing how organisms have adapted over time and applying those insights to innovate and improve technologies and systems. Biomimicry is not a new idea, as indigenous communities have long understood that nature holds profound knowledge and offering lessons for living in harmony and balance. Native American author Robin Wall Kimmerer writes that humans have the least experience with how to live and thus the most to learn – we must look to our teachers among other species for guidance.
The article provides five examples of biomimicry, including the development of Velcro, smart windows, advanced adhesives, and wind turbines. For instance, the design of Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train was inspired by the kingfisher’s beak, resulting in a quieter, faster, and more energy-efficient train. Similarly, the invention of Velcro was inspired by the hooks on burrs. The article concludes that biomimicry reveals that nature is not just a resource – it’s a mentor, and that by observing and learning from nature, we can find innovative solutions to today’s challenges.