The Biomimicry 3.8 Institute is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the study and imitation of nature’s remarkably efficient designs, bringing together scientists, engineers, architects and innovators who can use those models to create sustainable technologies.
The Institute offers short-term workshops and two-year certificate courses in biomimicry for professionals, and helps to develop and share resources including biomimicry-related K-12 and university curricula used in a range of educational venues, from K-12 classrooms to universities, as well as informal settings such as zoos, aquariums and museums. The Institute also serves as a resource for biological researchers around the world and a clearinghouse for their insights, data, and reports.
The Institute was founded in 2006 by science writer and consultant Janine Benyus in response to overwhelming interest in the subject following the publication of her book, Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature. See Janine’s TED Talk video for her groundbreaking introduction to biomimicry.
Today, the Biomimicry 3.8 Institute focuses on three areas:
• Developing educational programs for students, professionals and the general public.
• Working to create public policies that use biomimicry as a solution to sustainability challenges.
• Encouraging companies that are profiting from biomimicry to provide financial support for biodiversity.
+ See examples of biomimicry in action or browse our online database of nature’s solutions, AskNature.org.
+ Meet executive director Bryony Schwan, our staff and the Institute Board.
+ View our 2006-2009 Annual Report.
+View the Biomimicry Institute 2010 990 form.