In a world where technological advancement is a constant, the most transformative innovations are often those that look back to nature for inspiration. For billions of years, nature has been refining solutions to the challenges of survival, offering a vast repository of wisdom that we are only beginning to tap into. From the intricate design of bird wings that inspired early aviation pioneers to the underwater adhesion of mussels that led to the development of advanced waterproof adhesives, nature’s ingenuity has been the blueprint for many technological marvels. UNDP, through our Nature Pledge, stands at the forefront of addressing the current crisis of global nature loss—leveraging nature-positive approaches, from boosting biodiversity finance to enhancing environmental governance. By looking to nature, we can discover solutions that not only drive technological breakthroughs but also harmonize human advancement with the ecosystems that sustain us.

Biological materials, unlike the metals and plastics often used in human-made products, are predominantly composed of organic substances and minerals. While these materials might seem weaker compared to industrial metals, evolution has fine-tuned them over millions of years to achieve remarkable strength and durability. What sets these natural materials apart is their ability to not just strengthen materials but to optimize them, crafting intricate, hierarchical structures at multiple scales. For example, the intricate layers of a conch shell or the fine-tuned beta-sheet crystals in spider silk illustrate how natural materials can achieve mechanical properties that rival, or even surpass, their synthetic counterparts. These structures are not just strong but also exceptionally tough, demonstrating nature’s ability to optimize material performance through its unique design principles.

The process of biomimicry involves taking cues from these natural designs to solve human problems. By studying the principles underlying the strength and resilience of natural materials, scientists and engineers can develop new materials and technologies that are both sustainable and highly efficient. For example, researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed 'eAir', an aero-elastic pressure sensor inspired by the lotus leaf effect. This technology enhances precision and reliability in medical applications, particularly in minimally invasive surgeries. The eAir sensor allows for tactile feedback, enabling surgeons to manipulate tissues more accurately. By addressing the limitations of conventional pressure sensors, eAir is a prime example of a nature-inspired technology that promises significant advancements in medical technology.