Dystopia to Utopia: Biomimicry, Ichthyology, and Product Design for Aquatic Justice

Project Partners:

• Metropolitan Museum of Design Detroit (MM-O-DD)

• Belle Isle Aquarium, Detroit, Michigan

• Principal Investigator (Michigan-based)

• Community and Environmental Advocacy Groups

Research Location:

• The Detroit River and the Great Lakes

Abstract: This research project explores the intersection of ichthyology, biomimicry, and product design to address ecological justice for aquatic life. With a focus on fish species native to the Detroit River, the project will investigate how their biological structures, behaviors, and environmental adaptations can inspire innovative product designs that support sustainable human and ecological systems. The study will challenge existing paradigms of societal justice, urging an expansion to include the rights and well-being of non-human inhabitants in our waterways.

Objectives:

1. Ichthyological Study: Conduct research on native fish species in the Detroit River to document their unique anatomical and physiological traits, particularly those with potential biomimetic applications.

2. Biomimicry Analysis: Identify specific fish adaptations that can inform sustainable design solutions for materials, structures, and water-related technologies.

3. Product Innovation: Develop prototypes inspired by aquatic adaptations to address environmental challenges such as pollution mitigation, water filtration, and climate resilience.

4. Ecosystem and Justice Integration: Examine how current conservation efforts can expand to include ethical considerations for aquatic life and how justice frameworks applied to human societies can be adapted for ecological equity.

5. Community Engagement and Education: Foster public awareness through exhibits, workshops, and publications, engaging designers, researchers, and policymakers in reimagining the relationship between human and aquatic ecosystems.

Methodology:

• Field Research: Collaborate with ichthyologists at the Belle Isle Aquarium to observe and document Detroit River fish species.

• Biomimetic Analysis: Work with biomimicry specialists to translate fish adaptations into applicable design solutions.

• Prototyping and Testing: Partner with sustainable product designers to create and evaluate ecological design innovations.

• Community Workshops and Exhibits: Develop public programming that bridges science, design, and social justice.

Expected Outcomes:

1. A comprehensive database of biomimetic design opportunities inspired by Great Lakes fish.

2. Conceptual and physical prototypes of environmentally conscious products informed by ichthyology.

3. A framework for integrating ecological justice into product design and conservation policy.

4. Public exhibitions and educational materials showcasing the findings.

Conclusion: This project will expand the conversation around justice beyond human societies to include the living systems of our waterways. By merging science, design, and ethical inquiry, it aims to redefine our relationship with aquatic life and foster a sustainable future that is just for all inhabitants of the Detroit River ecosystem.