BIO-DESIGN DEFINITIONS
BY
RICH ALTHERR
DIRECTOR OF BIOMIMICRY
Graphic icon by John Pappas
Graphic Icon by Ideation Orange
Graphic Icon by Ideation Orange
Graphic Icon by Ideation Orange
Biomimicry Design: a design that functions like Nature's forms, processes, and ecosystems (i.e., a wind turbine blade with functional design shapes of a whale flipper that improving efficiency).
Bio-utilization Design: a design using Nature's physical product or process for creation (i.e., adding waste coffee grounds to plastic parts).
Bio-assisted Design: a design aided by Nature for a product or process (i.e., growing bacteria to digest plastic).
Biomorphism Design: a design that looks like Nature's patterns and shapes (i.e., a beautiful sculpture that resembles the patterns of a tree).
Biophilic Design: a design that may include physical elements of Nature (bio-utilization) or design elements that remind humans of Nature (biomorphism), invoking a "love of life." (i.e., a living plant wall in an office space).