The Biomimicry Institute
The Biomimicry Institute is non-profit organization based in Missoula, Montana, USA. It was founded in 2006 by Janine Benyus; a natural sciences writer, innovation consultant, and author of six books, including â Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature. Its mission is to naturalize biomimicry in culture by promoting the transfer of ideas, designs, and strategies from biology to sustainable human systems design with the aim of creating a healthier, more sustainable planet.
Background
The Biomimicry Institute has developed a wide range of programs and activities to spread the word about biomimicry, advance research and education, and provide environments for collaboration. The Institute has a range of downloadable curricula for K-12 schools on its website, and links to university classes and programs around the world, from Hungary to Singapore. In January 2010, Arizona State University became the newest member of the Biomimicry Affiliate Program of the Biomimicry Institute. It has grown from one staff member and a $25,000 seed grant to a ten person staff with a $1.3 million annual budget. It has also created an annual summit and provided lectures, workshops and exhibits around the world.
AskNature.org
The Institute has also launched AskNature.org - a free, online, searchable database of information for the online biomimicry community. The goal of the website is to connect innovative minds with life's best ideas, and in the process, inspire technologies that create conditions conducive to life. The website now has more than 2,400 registered users from 196 countries. In August 2010, AskNature was awarded $10,000 by The Earth Awards, and is in the running for of the Grand Prize of The Earth Awards 2010 in London.