Howdy readers,
After reading Chapter 3 of Design is the Problem and identifying each of the 8 frameworks for addressing sustainability in regards to design and development, I have concluded that not only is biomimicry the most interesting, but it would also be the coolest and the most beneficial to humankind.
Biomimicry is a new process of design though, and although it is a highly advanced lens for sustainable development, it is difficult to account for its financial impact. As the chapter speaks to, the process of designing from a biomimicry perspective can be highly efficient. By studying shapes and processes in nature and designing tools around this through inspiration of materials and shapes, innovators have be able to streamline many processes of production for other non-conventionally sustainable products.
This is one reason why I believe biomimicry is the best lens for sustainable innovation; because it reinvents production processes through mimicry of nature – enhancing the sustainability of any and all products produced through the newly biomimicking processes. Understanding how production processes, including efficiency of machinery and delivery is a very important aspect of sustainable products that not every consumer considers, including myself! The example regarding a Hummer vs a Prius was shocking but easily understood and digested, despite the fact that Shedroff continuously reiterated how car manufacturers will not release the actual production capabilities in order to determine the real and completely accurate numbers. Researchers and experts though can come within reason of the actual numbers though, and when it comes to hybrids vs low mile-per-gallon vehicles, in some cases the low mileage per gallon gas guzzler trumps the hybrid. This is due to some aspects of production, aside from the experiential driving. The Prius is coming from Japan, probably transported on a ship and includes two drivetrains and multiple batteries which are extremely difficult to dispose of safely, essentially lowering it on the sustainability chart.
Each of the frameworks had a lot to offer and many had very similar aspects. I agree with Shedroff towards the end of the chapter in that in order for a company to optimize sustainability, they must utilize multiple frameworks. Although, biomimicry would ultimately benefit humanity the most, in my opinion, as aforementioned it is difficult to predict the financial aspects of the framework, and ultimately, is an unrealistic short-term expectation of companies.
Lets get reading!
xoxo Lana