Protecting Inspiration

The biomimetic path as outlined by author Janine Benyus in her book, Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature, described four steps: quieting human cleverness, listening to life’s genius, echoing what we learn, and giving thanks. This last all-important step, giving thanks, we call “Innovation for Conservation.” The idea is intuitively simple: not only can companies revolutionize their products and services by partnering with Nature for design inspiration, they can reinvest in natural capital to protect the headwaters of this innovation resource, and at the same time, demonstrate their gratitude to Nature for benefits already reaped. After all, shouldn’t we properly honor the organisms and ecosystems that evolved these ingenious, sustainable ideas, and thank them for showing us the way? When companies support biomimicry-based conservation, the circle becomes complete.

Through the Innovation for Conservation program, we work with companies to donate a percentage of the sales or savings of products and processes that were inspired by Nature to conservation efforts that help protect and restore the home habitats of these inspiring organisms. The program supports projects that provide clear and compelling conservation benefits for the organisms and their habitats that have inspired innovation, build capacity in both individuals and institutions for conducting quality conservation work, and value local people as vital participants in the conservation process.

Help us conserve the genius of Nature! If you would like to know more about how to participate in this unique Nature conservation program, please contact Sam Stier, sam@biomimicryinstitute.org.