Biomimicry

Definition

• Biomimicry: Practice of imitating life.
  • Bio: Life
  • Mimicry: Imitate
• Innovation inspired by nature to address sustainability challenges.

Importance of Biomimicry

• Humans have created advancements (cities, economies) but also sustainability challenges.
• Biomimicry adapts solutions from nature to create sustainable policies, products, and processes.
• Nature has undergone billions of years of R&D (3.8 billion years) to thrive on Earth.

Key Examples of Biomimicry

1. Sustainable Energy

   • Challenge: Finding economically viable sustainable energy solutions.
   • Nature's inspiration: Efficiency from humpback whale flippers.
   • WhalePower: Company developed turbine blades with tubercules based on whale flippers.
     • Benefit: Up to 20% increased efficiency for wind and hydroelectric turbines, irrigation pumps, and fans.

2. Shinkansen Bullet Train

   • Speed: Originally traveled over 200 mph, caused sonic booms when exiting tunnels.
   • Problem: Noise pollution laws in Japan necessitated a quieter design.
   • Nature's inspiration: Kingfisher's beak design.
     • Result: Quieter train that uses 15% less electricity and travels 10% faster.

Learning and Resources

• Explore more about biomimicry:
  • Websites: biomimicry.org, asknature.org
  • Purpose: Learn about innovation inspired by nature and find more examples.

Additional Information

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