Lessons from evolution by natural selection: An unprecedented opportunity to use biomimetics to improve planetary health. (15th February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stenvinkel, Peter; Shiels, Paul G.; Johnson, Richard J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 328(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02-15
• Subjects: Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116981
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Planetary health embraces the concept that long-term human welfare depends on the well-being of its ecological systems. Current practices, however, have often ignored this concept and have led to an anthropocentric world, with the consequence of increased greenhouse gas emissions, heat stress, lack of clean water and pollution, that are threatening the environment as well as the health and life of Homo sapiens and many other species. One consequence of environmental stressors has been the stimulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress that may not only promote common lifestyle diseases, but the ageing process. Despite the harshness of the current reality, treatment opportunities may exist ' in our backyard'. Biomimicry is an emerging field of research that explores how nature is structured and aims to mimic ingenious solutions that have evolved in nature for different applications that benefit human life. As nature always counteracts excesses from within, biodiversity could be a source of solutions that have evolved through the natural selection of animal species that have survived polluted, warm, and arid environments – i.e. the same presumptive changes that now threaten human health. One example from the emerging science suggests that animals use the cytoprotective Nrf2 antioxidant pathway to combat environmental stress and this may be a case example that we can apply to better human health. Learning from nature may provide opportunities for environmental management and solutions to the most challenging issue that face the future of the planet. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Learning from nature provide solutions to challenging issues that face the future of the planet. Intersectoral research actions are needed to 'connect-the dots' between individual research silos. The 'climate crises engender the same inflammatory phenotype as age-related burden of lifestyle diseases. A biomimetic research approach could benefit human health during the Anthropocene and ensure survival of the planet.