Introduction: the concept of biomimicry and bioinspiration in chemistry

Authors

Timothy Hanks, Furman UniversityFollow
Gerhard F. Swiegers, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

56895

Publication Details

Hanks, T. & Swiegers, G. F. (2012). Introduction: the concept of biomimicry and bioinspiration in chemistry. In G. F. Swiegers (Eds.), Bioinspiration and Biomimicry in Chemistry: Reverse-Engineering Nature (pp. 1-9). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

Abstract

The idea of looking to Nature to solve problems is undoubtedly as old as humanity itself. Observations of Nature, particularly of its biological face, have impacted the development of every facet of human society, from basic survival tactics to art, and from fashion to philosophy. Indeed, as a part of the biosphere ourselves, we cannot help but frame our conceptual understanding of ourselves and our environment in terms of biology. Bioinspiration and biomimicry, then, are ancient processes that take advantage of millions of years of evolutionary experimentation to help us address the many challenges that affect human well-being.