Bioinspiration education at zoological institutions: an optimistic approach for innovation leading to biodiversity conservation. Issue 1 (20th March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Topaz, M.
• Is Part Of: International zoo yearbook. Volume 50:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 112
• Page End: 124
• Publication Date: 2016-03-20
• Subjects: biodiversity -- bioinspiration -- biomimicry -- conservation education -- environmental education -- interdisciplinary education -- outdoor learning -- sustainable development; Zoos -- Periodicals; 590.73
• DOI: 10.1111/izy.12123
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0074-9664

Abstract

Abstract : Many of the challenges in our everyday lives have answers in nature's genius. Adaptations that have been made by animals and plants offer a library of inspiration to generate innovative, sustainable solutions in different fields. Bioinspiration (or biomimicry) is an interdisciplinary methodology in which biological and ecological principles are applied to human problem solving. Biological forms, mechanisms, processes and functions are used to stimulate inventions in diverse disciplines; for example, architecture, medicine, robotics and communication. Zoological institutions are great platforms to implement bioinspiration as an element of the efforts towards sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. In 2011, the Zoological Centre Tel Aviv – Ramat Gan, Israel, opened a bioinspiration educational unit for various audiences, including children and adults, professionals and the general public. The mission is to build an interdisciplinary platform that bridges the natural world and human challenges and to encourage visitors to be more conscious of biodiversity conservation within their professional and everyday lives. Using methods from interdisciplinary and outdoor education to promote higher‐order thinking skills, visitors are invited to explore a new kind of learning – not only about nature but also from nature. In this way, the Zoological Centre brings people closer to nature by giving them more reasons to value and conserve species and habitats.