BIONICS AS THE FOUNDATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE: ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SYNERGY WITH THE ENVIRONMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31650/2786-6696-2025-14-9-16Keywords:
bionics, architecture, energy efficiency, environmentAbstract
The article explores bionics as a scientific and methodological foundation for creating sustainable architecture capable of energy-efficient functioning and achieving synergy with the natural environment. It examines the evolution of bionics from the formal imitation of organic forms to the comprehensive application of biomimetic principles. Through specific examples – such as the passive ventilation system of the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe, inspired by termite mound architecture, and façade concepts that mimic photosynthesis – the article reveals mechanisms for implementing bionic design solutions. Particular attention is given to analyzing the energy efficiency, adaptability, and resource-saving characteristics of bio-inspired architectural objects.
The study highlights the contemporary understanding of bionics, which focuses on the principles of cyclicality, adaptability, and zero-waste design derived from natural ecosystems. It provides a detailed analysis of examples ranging from passive ventilation and thermal regulation systems modeled after termite mounds to adaptive façade systems that imitate photosynthesis and plant regulatory mechanisms. Special attention is paid to environmental synergy achieved through efficient resource management – for instance, mimicking water-harvesting strategies of desert insects or adopting lightweight yet durable structural analogues inspired by biological prototypes such as bone or spider silk to minimize material consumption.
The discussion systematizes the advantages of the bionic approach – including enhanced energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and improved comfort – while also addressing the challenges of its implementation, such as high research costs and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. The article substantiates the idea that bionics serves not only as a tool for solving engineering problems but also as a catalyst for shaping a new architectural philosophy aimed at fostering harmony between the built and natural environments.
The practical significance of the study lies in its potential use by researchers, educators, graduate students, and practitioners engaged in related scientific and design inquiries.
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