Thursday, August 27, 2009

Consider the cactus

Cacti are amazing... They thrive in the harshest environments on earth using the least amount of resources imaginable and at the same time are stunning displays of beauty. Scientifically, the cactus is considered a succulent (or CAM) plant, simply meaning that they have the ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide in very extreme conditions such as high temperatures and intense sunlight while still retaining water. They protect themselves from predators using an ornate system of thorns. They live for as long as 300 years. And they produce conspicuous and spectacular flowers in an otherwise stark landscape.

According to Wikipedia, biomimicry (from bios, meaning life, and mimesis, meaning to imitate) is an ancient concept recently returning to scientific thought that examines nature, its models, systems, processes, and elements— and emulates or takes inspiration from them to solve human problems sustainably.

How can ideas based on biomimicry be used to promote a healthy, safe and secure lifestyle in a renewable, reliable and remarkable way?

No comments:

Post a Comment