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Biomimicry is learning from nature as a mentor for sustainability, a model of sustainability, and a measure of sustainability. Organizations use biomimicry to develop new products and processes. Biomimicry design resides At the Interface of organizations and the natural environment; connecting organizations with nature and facilitating exchange across their boundaries. Exchanges across the interface between organizations and nature can stimulate innovation through nature-inspired design that can lead us toward more sustainable solutions in addressing the grand challenges before us. 

This PDW offers an opportunity to learn nature's approach toward sustainability. The PDW will educate participants on the topic of biomimicry and utilize a hands-on experiential activity to have participants apply the biomimicry design spiral in the development of a new product concept to solve a business sustainability challenge. Learning outcomes of the workshop include the ability of participants to (1) understand biomimicry, (2) apply biomimicry design principles and strategies, and (3) incorporate this topic into courses. The workshop will be of interest to management faculty in sustainability, entrepreneurship, new product development, and innovation.