Emulating nature’s genius: the transformative potential of bio-inspired design for sustainability and innovation

Bio-inspired design, in its intentional meaning (Pasca, 2010), therefore meth- odologically, represents an innovation that offers a new perspective for addressing cur- rent challenges through the emulation of strategies found in nature. Nowadays, human activities cannot ignore the well-being of humans as intimately linked to that of other species and the planet (Murray et al, 2022), and therefore, nature becomes a model for the design of digital applications, new materials, and production processes, pedagogical models, forms of social interaction, and the hybridization of practices and contexts. This design approach promotes sustainability, encouraging deeper reflection on the integra- tion between technology and the environment. From the research and application of bio- inspiration, numerous case studies, practical experiences, and theoretical analyses explore the possibilities it offers in all aspects of design. These demonstrate how this approach can reshape the dynamics of interaction between humans and any organization, as well as develop innovative solutions in product and service design, even in a speculative manner. Increasingly, advanced scientific research integrates with grassroots experiences, such as those of the maker culture, in response to the condition of fragility and emergency that characterizes today’s society (Rawsthorn & Antonelli, 2022). In this sense, the present con- tribution aims to strengthen the discussion on the crucial role played by bio-inspiration in the design process, highlighting the need for spaces for experimentation and innovation. Through an analysis of projects ranging from the composition of innovative materials for additive manufacturing technologies (Tang, M., Zhong, Z., & Ke, C.2023) to speculative design, followed by some design experiences and the use of artificial intelligence, the doc- ument invites continuous exploration of the riches of the natural world as an inexhaustible source of inspiration and guidance for a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally harmonious future of design.