Applied Biomimicry for Systems Design
Biomimicry is a powerful lens for addressing society’s challenges. Through the principles of nature-inspired design, this course introduces the tools and perspectives needed to find regenerative solutions at the systems level.
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Overview
Discover how biomimicry translates nature's most time-tested strategies into practical, systems-level solutions you can apply directly to your work.
Key Benefits
- Shift from linear thinking to systems-level, nature-informed design
- Apply ecological performance standards as benchmarks for regenerative solutions
- Translate biological strategies into actionable organizational interventions
What's Included
- Hands-on project using an AI-powered tool to design a site incorporating biomimicry principles at the systems level
- Real-world case studies from around the world demonstrating the capacity and challenges related to implementing biomimicry principles
- Guided biomimicry thinking process from function identification to pitch
- Reflections on Indigenous ecological knowledge and its design lessons
Take your first step toward designing regenerative solutions that work with and for the natural world.
Who this course is designed for:
- Environmental scientists, sustainability professionals, and conservation practitioners seeking to apply systems-level thinking to real-world ecological challenges.
- Architects, urban planners, and engineers interested in integrating biological strategy and regenerative design principles into projects and infrastructure.
- Professionals in ecosystem restoration, regenerative agriculture, green infrastructure, and climate implementation looking for practical, nature-inspired frameworks.
- Organizations and innovation teams developing scalable, nature-based solutions with measurable environmental impact.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Distinguish biomimicry from related bio-design approaches and articulate its unique value in regenerative design.
- Apply systems thinking to complex, real-world design challenges.
- Translate biological functions into practical, regenerative design strategies.
- Assess a site’s capacity to deliver ecosystem services and identify opportunities for enhancement.
- Evaluate design concepts against nature’s performance benchmarks.
- Communicate a biomimicry-informed strategy through a clear, compelling stakeholder pitch.
Practical skills you will develop
This program equips learners with vital skills to thrive in today’s complex workforce. Key skills include:
These skills apply to these careers
Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Implement sustainability practices—waste, green building, resource management
Landscape Architects
Plan and design land areas for parks, campuses, recreation facilities, private residences, and other open spaces with attention to environmental sustainability and site functionality.
Agricultural and Food Scientists
Research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural establishments and products. May advise on soil health, sustainable production systems, and regenerative practices.
Environmental Engineers
Design systems for environmental protection, including stormwater management, green infrastructure, and sustainable development projects.
Urban and Regional Planners
Develop comprehensive plans and programs for land use that help communities adapt to environmental and climate-related challenges.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Plan, direct, and coordinate activities in engineering and architecture, including sustainability initiatives and environmental innovation strategies.
Instructors
Arizona State University
Contact information
Have additional questions?
Please reach out directly to Tye Waggoner ([email protected]) for assistance with the programs content.