Biomimicry offers the opportunity to shift our approach as we address the growing need for shelter
solutions that better assist those displaced by climate-related events. There is a need not only for
immediate shelter and resources, but also for transformation into longer term solutions to help facilitate
recovery after a crisis. This multi-faceted, multi-function challenge is an ideal candidate for biomimicry
Thinking. In this session we will explore the application of a Biomimicry process to a current project
which addresses the human aspect of climate change response with a new way of approaching shelter
solution design.
The two-year process used to approach this design problem will be presented and discussed by the team
in a collaborative presentation. The discussion includes insights into challenges, lessons learned, new
perspectives gained, and recommendations for applying this process to the suite of challenges
presented by a climate-related crisis. The presenters have been fully engaged in the project since its
inception and will share equally in the presentation, with insight on each area of specialty as it relates to
the Biomimicry process used.
Our work here will highlight the natural fit between Biomimicry Thinking and the Living Building vision.
Using Biomimicry as a guide to enhance our perspective and opening new avenues of thinking allows us
to approach a climate related displacement with fresh eyes and expanded understanding. Part of our
purpose is to ultimately generate solutions that can appropriately respond and adapt to changing
conditions, maintain integrity, and provide regenerative spaces for people and natural ecosystems.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES1. Understand the synergy between Biomimicry and the Living Building vision for maintaining
hope in crisis through shelter solutions.
2. Adopt Biomimicry tools and strategies such as Life’s Principles in a design scenario.
3. Apply Biomimicry Thinking to a climate-related design challenge.
CONTINUING EDUCATIONThis session has been approved for the following continuing education credits:
