ABSTRACT
This chapter examines whether biomimicry can be an effective means to either mitigate the causes of climate change the built environment is responsible for, or adapt to the impacts of climate change. Two possible options for architectural responses to climate change that are inspired by an understanding of the living world are investigated. The first is integrating biomimetic technologies into or onto buildings that are able to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The second is using biomimicry to adapt to the direct impacts of climate change on the built environment. A series of case study examples illustrates the benefits and drawbacks of each approach and potential for effectiveness over the short, medium and long terms. In addition to a reduced or potentially negative carbon footprint for the built environment, further significant benefits may occur, including positive impacts on biodiversity. Several issues with, and disadvantages of, using biomimicry to address climate change or biodiversity through the medium of the built environment are discussed. The chapter concludes that design that mimics ecosystems and utilises synergies between mitigation and adaptation strategies in relation to climate change could be a beneficial long-term biomimetic built environment response to climate change.
