Review: Biomimicry – Innovation Inspired by Nature

Abstract

Necessity may be invention’s mom, but the producers of Biomimicry argue that “nature” is, in fact, a much better “mother.” The film warns students of the ways our vaunted technologies may be damaging our planet, and encourages them to look natureward when designing new problem-solving technologies. This unconventional film can both inspire and initiate discussion in its intended audience of grades 7–12. Based on the book by Janine Benyus, the two-part DVD introduces various novel technologies, the scientist(s) behind them, and their inspirations in nature. Examples of the technologies include synthetic compounds that mimic the process of photosynthesis in order to harvest energy, environmentally friendly rugs with patterns inspired by nature, adhesives that incorporate the compounds found in mussel glue, and even microprocessors made more effective by mimicking the abalone.The kiln of evolution has forged the internal processes of Earth’s organisms for millions of years. For this reason Wes Jackson of the Land Institute, Devens Just and the Moores at Arizona State University, among the other scientists featured, are encouraging students to seek solutions to our problems by imitating nature rather than merely consuming nature’s limited resources.One caveat: The film does not appear to have been made for youthful audiences in its pacing and music. The dialogue is stagey, the soundtrack old fashioned. But these minor flaws are trumped by the science, which is complex, top notch, relevant, and well explained. It doesn’t require further flash and panache to be absorbing. For the teacher choosing to share clips that enrich lessons on Biotechnology, chemistry, or natural resources, the film is very effective; it is also appropriate for older audiences.