Biomimicry: Solutions Inspired By Nature

Single program or series | One school visit (1 hour) and/or one field trip (2 hours)

This program will combine biology and technology to empower students to think of how to create a more sustainable human world.

Using a wide variety of local specimens, we will introduce students to local, native plants and animals through hands-on observation and investigation. Students will then transition from learning about the natural world to learning from the natural world: Biomimicry, the emerging discipline of emulating nature’s best ideas to solve human problems, turns biological strategies into design principles. Famous examples include Velcro inspired by burdock burrs, solar cells inspired by plant leaves, and self-cleaning exterior paint inspired by the lotus flower plant.

After a short presentation on biomimicry, students will pick a human problem and brainstorm ways that natural objects may inspire solutions.

Locations: Your school and either Broad Meadow Brook or Wachusett Meadow