Bio-inspired design: A systemic and interdisciplinary design approach to increase the sustainability of processes and products

Bio-inspired design is based on the imitation of natural processes to create innovative and sustainable design solutions. Bio-inspired design represents a powerful engine of innovation for design, using new knowledge produced by nanoscience to understand and replicate natural phenomena observed at the nanoscale. At this scale, complex and layered structures and unprecedented performances of nature can be observed that are fundamental for the development of bio-inspired and sustainable designs and products. The emulation of natural principles and strategies requires an interdisciplinary and systemic approach to design in order to optimise the technical, functional and environmental performance of products. Bio-inspired design requires a multiplicity of skills and knowledge of advanced computational design tools. Biomimicry represents a crucial interdisciplinary research field for the future of sustainable design and for meeting the challenges of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).