Biomimicry is the science of applying nature-inspired designs in human engineering and invention to solve human problems. For example, it was used to create the first flying machine, inspired by eagles and owls—this paved the way for technologies like jets and planes.
Biomimicry offers an empathetic, interconnected understanding of how life works and, ultimately, where we fit in.
The goal is to create products, processes, and policies — new ways of living — that solve our greatest design challenges sustainably and in solidarity with all life on earth.
There are three types of biomimicry – one is copying form and shape, another is copying a process, like photosynthesis in a leaf, and the third is mimicking at an ecosystem’s level, like building a nature-inspired city.
A few synonyms exist for biomimicry, like self-assembling, nanostructures, supramolecular, nano-scale, peptide-based, microfluidics, biosensor, and nanostructured.