THE GENIUS OF THE NATURAL WORLD
BIOMIMICRY EMULATES NATURE TO SOLVE HUMAN PROBLEMS

WHEELING, W.Va. (August 17, 2009)- - Nature’s genius takes center stage as Oglebay Institute continues its Living Green Lecture Series with a look at biomimicry, the science and art of emulating nature’s models, systems and processes to solve human problems.

“Biomimicry: Beyond Green,” takes place at 2 p.m August 30 at the Schrader Environmental Education Center in Oglebay and is presented by Ohio Valley native Lisa (Boroski) Schmidtke of the Biomimicry Institute. Schmidtke is a building designer who is one of the first 16 students worldwide to be formally educated and certified as a practicing biomimic.

From non-toxic adhesives inspired by geckos to energy efficient buildings inspired by termite mounds and resistance-free antibiotics inspired by red seaweed, biomimicry copies natural processes to design more efficient technologies that are in greater harmony with the natural world.

“Biomimicry is not a new concept, but it has returned to the forefront of scientific thought in recent years as scientists grapple with finding solutions aimed at conserving our natural resources, protecting Earth’s biodiversity and reducing the ecological impact of industrial processes,” Schrader Center director Eriks Janelsins said. “Biomimics of today are going beyond green by viewing nature not just as a model, but as a mentor.”

Janelsins explained that advances in technology give scientists the capability to look deeper into nature and emulate not only its products but also its materials and processes. He added that the innovative field of biomimicry brings together science and industry to work toward sustainability.

“Scientists are working with engineers, designers, other researchers and entrepreneurs in an interdisciplinary manner to create products and systems based on nature,” he said. “It only makes sense. Millions of species have the time-tested genius of living sustainably on this plant. We can learn a lot from them.”

For example, the Galapagos shark has a pattern on its skin that prevents bacteria adhering to it. Technologies are being developed to create a bacteria resistant surface that is more effective than using anti-bacterial washes. We can also learn about energy efficiency from beehives. Like a swarm of insects, appliances in our home could talk to each other to minimize peak power use. The way that doctors treat broken bones can also be improved through biomimicry. Researchers, inspired by sandcastle worms who secrete their own nature glue to build underwater houses, have been able to copy and synthesize the glue, and hope it can someday replace pins, screws and such in mending broken bones.

Schmidtke will discuss examples like this in her August 30 lecture as well as define what biomimicry is and where it fits in the world of “green.” She will discuss local connections, biomimicry case studies and what you can do to help. Schmidtke grew up in the Ohio Valley and attended Buckeye South High School and Kent State University. Her professional career has focused on the design of commercial buildings, and she has more than 20 years of experience in the design of healthcare, corporate, educational and government facilities.  She is also trained as a strategic planner, project manager, and is a LEED Accredited Professional.   Lisa is currently an associate with Clark Nexsen Architecture and Engineering in their Norfolk, Virginia headquarters and works as a senior planner and programmer for projects all over the world.  She specializes in healthcare facilities and has an overall interest in designing “healthy” buildings, as well as sustainable community environments.  Since her first encounter with biomimicry in 2002, Lisa knew that this would eventually be her path for tying together her love of design, problem solving and nature.  She will be one of the first 16 students worldwide to be formally educated and certified as a practicing biomimic.

Sponsored by Jackson Kelly, PLLC, “Biomimicry: Beyond Green” is free and open to the public. The program includes the lecture, a question and answer session and a coffee reception, following the presentation, for further discussion of the topic.

The Living Green Lecture Series continues through October with programs focusing on a variety of environmental issues. The series, now in its third year, was developed and is organized by Oglebay Institute’s Environmental Education Committee.

For more information, call 304.242.6855 or visit on the web at www.OIonline.com