Biomimicry and Green Building

This “must see” video is an inspiring talk about recent developments in biomimicry, Janine Benyus provides heartening examples of ways in which nature is already influencing the products and systems we build.

A self-proclaimed nature nerd, Janine Benyus is the author of Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature, a book that has galvanized scientists, architects, designers and engineers into exploring new ways in which nature’s successes can inspire humanity.

Can you imagine a world where you could finish the roof of a building, spray it with a special coating, and then watch it self assemble into a light gathering, energy emiting solar cell, a locust’s ability to avoid collision within an 80 million swarm informs the design of a crash-resistant car; a self-cleaning leaf inspires a new kind of paint, one that dries in a pattern that enables simple rainwater to wash away dirt; CO2 becoming a solution as a feedstock for biodegradeable polycarbonates; and organisms capable of living without water open the way for vaccines that maintain potency even without refrigeration — a hurdle that can prevent life-saving drugs from reaching disease-torn communities.

Jimmy and Jean talk about the engine in plants and solar power, The Politics of Fear, the secret to happiness, and falling in love. All in the space of five minutes with no cuts or edits. They just don’t make ‘em like this anymore. A great scene from the movie, You Can’t Take it With You.

Sex, Velcro & Biomimicry