Mapping biomimicry research to sustainable development goals

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Sustainable Development

Background:

• Biomimicry offers nature-inspired solutions to global challenges.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for global progress.
• Interdisciplinary research is crucial for addressing complex sustainability issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate biomimicry research in relation to the SDGs.
• To identify thematic clusters and interdisciplinary connections between biomimicry and SDGs.
• To highlight biomimicry's potential contributions to health, sustainability, and energy sectors.

Main Methods:

• Systematic evaluation of biomimicry research.
• Thematic cluster analysis to identify research trends and SDG alignment.
• Mapping interdisciplinary connections within the field.

Main Results:

• Two primary thematic clusters emerged: (1) Health, Partnership, and Life on Land (SDGs 3, 17, 15), and (2) Clean Water, Energy, Infrastructure, and Marine Life (SDGs 6, 7, 9, 14).
• Biomimicry significantly contributes to sustainable energy practices (SDG 7) and promotes ecosystem conservation.
• Emerging research areas include metaheuristics, nanogenerators, exosomes, and bioprinting.

Conclusions:

• Biomimicry is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field with significant potential to advance global sustainability efforts.
• Nature-inspired solutions are key to achieving health, sustainable energy access, and ecosystem preservation.
• Cross-sectoral partnerships and continued research are vital for maximizing biomimicry's impact on SDGs.