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Biomimicry
(from bios, meaning life, and mimesis, meaning to imitate) is a relatively
new science
that studies nature, its models, systems,
processes and elements and then imitates or takes creative inspiration from
them to solve human problems sustainably. Biomimetics
is the word most frequently used in scientific and engineering
literature that is meant to indicate the process of understanding and
applying (to human designs) biological principles that underlie the function
of biological entities at all levels of organization. This includes biomaterials, biomechanics, biological systems composed of individuals of one species (e.g. Schools, herds and swarms), or multispecies ensembles. In her 1997 book,
"Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature" (ISBN 0-06-053322-6),
author Janine M. Benyus introduces biomimicry, presents examples, and
explains why the field is important now. She writes, "Our planet-mates
(plants, animals and microbes) have been patiently perfecting their wares for
more than 3.8 billion years ... Turning rock and
sea into a life-friendly home. What better models could there be?"
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