About Biomimicry Innovation Lab - Nature-Inspired Solutions
Nature's Proven Solutions for Tomorrow's Innovation Challenges.
Our Origin Story - Biomimicry Innovation Lab
We translate biological insights into practical innovations using a scientifically rigorous framework. Founded by Richard James MacCowan*, we connect organisations with nature-inspired strategies that deliver measurable results through evidence-based methodologies.
*Interesting fact: Richard learned about nature-inspired innovation at school in the early 1990s. His project was improving aircraft performance. Ask him nicely, and he will show you the remaining artwork.
The journey began with a simple observation: while organisations struggle with complex sustainability challenges, evolution has been refining solutions for over 4 billion years.
As I studied these biological systems, I recognised that many approaches to "biomimicry" lacked scientific rigour. The typical practice often oversimplified the complexity of nature or made claims without proper evidence. This insight led me to establish the laboratory, creating a bridge between peer-reviewed biological research and the practical innovation needs of industry to develop biomimetic solutions.
The lab was founded on a commitment to scientific integrity and critical thinking. Rather than merely imitating nature's shapes, we analyse the underlying principles, processes, and relationships that make biological systems so remarkable.
Our Approach: The NII Framework
Our NII Framework examines biological systems through six key dimensions*:
Substance: What materials are used and why.
Structure: How these materials are arranged.
Energy: How energy flows through the system.
Information: How data is processed and communicated.
Space: How spatial relationships optimise function.
Time: How processes unfold and adapt over different timescales.
*Adapted from the work of Vincent et al (2006) Biomimetics: its theory and practice.
Rather than prescribing specific tools or methodologies, this framework provides a conceptual architecture that can be applied using whatever analytical approaches best suit the challenge at hand.
We deliberately maintain methodological flexibility, drawing from diverse disciplines and approaches as needed. This allows us to select the most appropriate analytical tools for each unique innovation challenge, whether that involves TRIZ-based problem solving, systems dynamics modelling, biomechanical analysis, or entirely novel approaches.
This adaptability enables us to focus on the fundamental principles operating within biological systems rather than becoming constrained by methodological orthodoxy.
By remaining tool-agnostic, we can more readily identify and translate the underlying mechanisms that make biological solutions so remarkably efficient and resilient.
Global Collaboration Network
Unlike traditional consultancies, we operate through a carefully curated global network of specialists. This model allows us to:
Bring exactly the right expertise to each unique challenge.
Connect you with world-class practitioners and researchers in relevant disciplines.
Maintain flexibility while ensuring consistent methodology.
Deliver solutions that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Each collaborator is selected for their scientific credential, expertise in their field, and ability to translate complex principles into practical applications.
Our Impact
Our work has helped organisations across sectors develop breakthrough solutions in:
Sustainable materials and manufacturing processes.
Energy-efficient building systems.
Circular economy models.
Resilient organisational structures.
Biomimetic product design.
Why This Matters
In a world of increasing complexity and accelerating change, evolution offers a vast database of tested strategies. By applying these principles with scientific rigour, we help organisations:
Solve complex problems with elegant, efficient solutions.
Reduce environmental impact while improving performance.
Develop innovations that stand out in crowded markets.
Build resilience into systems and processes.
Let’s Connect
Ready to explore how biological intelligence can transform your approach to innovation?
Richard James MacCowan
Founder + Director