The Biomimicry Institute has unveiled its newest project, an online database aimed at making nature-inspired ideas more accessible.
The recently-launched AskNature.org is a free online database of nature's solutions for filtering air, adhering diverse surfaces, moving in water and hundreds of other processes.
Each entry includes an explanation of a strategy, information on organisms that utilize the strategy, real or possible products and uses for the strategy, and related photos, illustrations, references and experts.
Only AskNature.org staff can add to the database currently, though users will be able to apply to be volunteer editors and contribute content. Eventually all users will be able to add photos, information and comments to build up the database. The site will also act as a social network, including spaces for discussions on biomimicry.
Much of the data on the site so far comes from the Biomimicry Guild and will grow as the project gains more natural history information from the Encyclopedia of Life. AskNature.org is sponsored by software company Autodesk, which has been integrating biomimicry and environmental issues into its design software and services. |
