If we observe nature closely, we’ll witness something astonishing: nothing is accidental. Every structure, every texture, every movement serves a purpose — with minimal energy waste and maximum efficiency. This wisdom, refined over 3.8 billion years, is what humanity seeks to harness through an exciting field called biomimicry.
Biomimicry or biomimetics, is an innovative approach that draws inspiration from nature’s forms, functions and strategies to develop solutions to human challenges. The term derives from the Greek words bios (life) and mimesis (imitation) and it involves studying natural systems to create technologies and products that are efficient, resilient and environmentally friendly.
Good practices
The first known product born from nature observation is Velcro. In 1941, Swiss engineer George de Mestral, after a walk with his dog, noticed that burdock seeds (Arctium lappa) clung stubbornly to clothing and fur. Under a microscope, he saw tiny hooks that latched onto fibers. This discovery led to the invention of Velcro, the well-known “hook-and-loop fastener”. This was a revolutionary attachment system that transformed everyday life, from fashion to aerospace.
Another remarkable phenomenon in nature is the “Lotus Effect”: lotus leaves repel water and dirt due to their micro- and nano-scale surface structures. Scientists used this property to develop hydrophobic surfaces, such as the Lotusan paint for building facades. With the right surface structure and a titanium dioxide coating, these surfaces clean themselves with rain — no detergents, no wear, and lasting protection.
Nature isn’t just clean — it’s fast. Speedo’s Fastskin swimsuit, inspired by the micro-texture of shark skin, minimizes water resistance. Released in 2006, it revolutionized competitive swimming — to the point where its use led to the breaking of world records at the 2008 Olympics and eventually to the revision of regulations by the International Swimming Federation. All thanks to a fish that swims smartly.
But biomimicry goes far beyond swimsuits. Nature also offers solutions for optical technology. The Greek company Biomimetic, a spin-off of the Foundation for Research and Technology in Crete, draws inspiration from the wings of cicadas and certain butterfly species, which feature nanostructures that do not reflect light. Using lasers, researchers replicate these structures on glass and screen surfaces. The result? Displays that remain readable even in bright sunlight and more efficient solar panels.
Nature is speaking to us … we just need to listen.
All these applications point to something profound: nature is not just beautiful. It is efficient, intelligent and inherently sustainable. Instead of inventing from scratch, we can observe. The spider, the shell, the bird, the insect — all have something to teach us.
Biomimicry invites us to rethink design — not as an exercise in imagination, but as a deep act of respect toward nature. To design objects that “live” and “collaborate” with the environment, that last, that do not pollute and — why not? — that learn.