Unlocking Insights on Human Belonging through Biomimicry

Understanding human defense mechanisms often involves the use of chemicals that evoke laughter instead of fear. But what does it mean to recognize our connection to nature? It encompasses various aspects such as biology, physiology, anatomy, genetics, and epigenetics. Currently, I am collaborating with a diverse team of women and men from the USA, Europe, Asia, and Africa to draft policy briefs and engage in initiatives focused on peace and health.

Science has a role in understanding how we, like plants, utilize chemicals for self-defense. I mentor students at the Born Global Foundation, which is engaged in the Modern Migration Project in the Mediterranean. Our group includes individuals from conflict zones like Lebanon, Israel, and Syria, as well as those from more stable regions such as the USA, Europe, Ghana, and the UK.

Institutions like Harvard University and various European universities are part of this initiative, which is headquartered in Maine—a region rich in logging and energy solutions, yet marked by tensions with Native Americans and later immigrant communities from Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and the UK. This area can serve as a catalyst for peace and technological innovation throughout America.

The United States has a history rooted in immigration, from the arrival of Europeans to the contributions of African Americans and Latinos, who similarly share ties to European heritage. While European colonialism has left a complex legacy, it has also enriched human diversity, reminding us that no race is pure. Personally, I have a multicultural family, and my own background includes Indonesian descent, despite my perceived privileges as a Dutch designer.

Historically, humans have always sought better living conditions and resources, which continues today amidst modern migration issues often tied to land, economy, and religion. Ultimately, we are a species that builds communities, akin to ants constructing their hills wherever sustenance can be found.

Designing for Improvement

In my work on creating better economic systems and societies, I employ several methodologies:

Lean: Aim for efficiency and quality from the outset.
Agile: Develop adaptable solutions that don’t waste resources.
Resilience: Generate multiple solutions to ensure continuity.
Multiple Values: Every project should serve various purposes, promoting not just financial gain but also environmental benefits, such as air-purifying cars and sustainable fishing practices.

Our primary approach is biomimicry, a method increasingly applied in scientific innovation, rooted in the principles of quantum physics. It appears that foundational theories by Newton may not fully capture the complexities of the smallest elements in nature, which focus on cellular interactions.

Nature operates differently from human technology, achieving 80% of its problem-solving through unique methods. As we innovate, we recognize that nature’s efficiencies stem from minimal toxin use and sustainable practices.

From Flora to Humanity

Biomimicry begins with studying specific species, as biologists play a crucial role in our innovation processes. However, translating insights from plants to human social design poses challenges. In our current Mediterranean project, we examined the rhizome plant Artemisia, known for its health benefits despite being labeled invasive.

While pharmaceutical companies profit from Artemisia-derived products, the plant's intrinsic strategies for survival—chemical defenses—offer insights into creating healthier environments. Our students explore these plant strategies and develop creative projects such as cookbooks and policy briefs.

Key learning points include:

Shifting focus from plant species to human communities, emphasizing belonging.
Recognizing how marginalized groups unite for support.
Understanding the perception of such groupings by dominant cultures.
Identifying leadership types needed for community cohesion.
Designing projects to bridge systemic gaps and promote inclusivity.

One piece of advice: avoid compensating ambassadors and influencers for their roles, as it may inflate their egos and hinder genuine collaboration.

Understanding the dynamics of privilege and victimhood can help foster adaptability among diverse groups.

Solutions through Biomimicry

Potential solutions informed by biomimicry include:

Utilizing local resources fully (reuse).
Analyzing current situations and predicting future trends through advanced methodologies.
Applying principles of keystone species to drive systemic change.
Emphasizing minimum effort for maximum impact.

What if we integrate these biomimicry concepts into social design?

Dear friends, understand the connections between your mind and body!

Next steps include:

Identifying key influencers within communities who can catalyze cultural change.
Encouraging these individuals to engage without financial incentives.
Collaboratively strategizing with them to promote community engagement.
Organizing cross-sector activities to foster connections and creativity.
Keeping the focus on the overarching purpose of our initiatives.

Ultimately, human defense mechanisms can be rooted in joy and connection rather than fear. To lead effectively, one must first understand their own emotional landscape.

My husband Mike and I are currently training leaders and creatives in the Mediterranean. Immersing oneself in nature can provide profound insights, serving as inspiration for ESG initiatives and community-building exercises.

Throughout the year, we host diverse groups, including:

A technology group exploring Nikola Tesla's energy concepts, likely transitioning to Croatia.
A writers’ group focused on holistic sciences and sensory therapies.

Your Contribution

We hope our narratives inspire you in your work and life. We invite you to share your visions for systemic design, as collaboration is essential for success.

The potential for a thriving economy in peaceful regions, like Indonesia's 6,000 islands, underscores the importance of thoughtful design strategies for sustainable leadership.

Utilizing biomimicry can enhance approaches to STEM, art, sustainable architecture, migration policies, and beyond.

We ARE nature, and it is time to reconnect with our biological roots.

Let’s embark on a journey to rewild our spirits together!

Abundance for All — Sense & Sciences Systemic Designer & Author, Independent Advisor to the EU Commission. Welcome to my life and work journey…