16. Biomimicry

Biomimicry literally means the imitation of life. Combination of the Greek roots bios, life, and mimikos, imitation, gives rise to the term. Biomimicry is an applied science that derives inspiration for solutions to human problems through the study of natural designs, systems and processes. It can be used to solve many problems which humans face in the fields of medicine, transportation, architecture and construction, energy, product design, computer science and network systems management. The science of biomimicry is a newly developing field but the application of biomimicry has been around since the beginning of man.

Biomimicry on the other hand, which is not a science, is a more subtle way which we can benefit from nature. Biomimicry is the modern, often high tech, equivalent of the historical practices of emulating nature.  Through biotechnology, biomimicry has led into genetic engineering, where we endeavour to change nature.  Biomimetic and genetically engineered futures in agriculture and health only are explored, not in terms of their technologies but in terms of their potential impacts on sustainability and the propensities of mankind.    Biomimetics is more limited than genetic engineering in our health futures.  The direction of development, application and control of genetic engineering are exceedingly problematic.  The biomimetic technologies (flight controls, bio-robotics, ventilation systems, etc.) and potential technologies (fin geometry, nacre materials, etc.) improve performance. The use of biomimicry as an approach to sustainable engineering, specifically the environmental components.