A new kind of science is emerging as a method by which we can learn from Earth’s natural processes. Sustainability is a focus of Biomimicry as it seeks to understand how nature solves her own problems.
In 1997, author and scientist Janine Benyus defined Biomimicry as a science that “studies nature’s models and then imitates or takes inspirations from these designs and processes to solve human problems”.
The San Diego Zoo has been practicing Biomimicry since 2007, and it commissioned this study in 2010, called “Global Biomimicry Efforts: An Economic Game Changer.”
The study notes that, “Two very different approaches are followed in the use of biomimicry. In some cases, scientists see an interesting concept in nature and then find a commercial application. In other instances, firms are seeking a solution to a specific problem and find an answer in the natural world.”
San Diego seems ideally situated to begin the next wave of scientific brilliance via Biomimicry. They predict that Biomimicry will help reduce the depletion of natural resources, create jobs and industry. In fact, the study declares “Biomimicry could be a major economic game changer.”
As science searches for answers to our most difficult human problems, Biomimicry shows us that we may find the best answers in nature.
The wildlife that dwells in our oceans are benefiting from this new science already. Beautiful data gathering robotic fish created by University of Essex professor Dr. Huosheng Hu measure levels of pollution. They swim around among real fish, and the data they collect is used by scientists to help protect the natural inhabitants of that body of water.
Humans are benefiting from Biomimicry as well. Florida-based biotech company, Sharklet Technologies, has invented a shark skin inspired adhesive film for use in the medical field for the prevention of infection in humans. Their specialty is "bacterial inhibition for medical devices", and they are successful innovators in the world of human medicine.
To find out more about why Biomimicry matters to Whale Tale Chips, please contact us.
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