Janine Benyus Honored by Time Magazine

Janine Benyus, writer and author of six books, including the popular "Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature" was named one of 43 "Heroes of the Environment by Time magazine in late October. A profile was done in the magazine and she was sent to London to receive the award.

The book tries to explain how humans can mimic designs in nature in order to further a more sustainable society.

Another Time article on the subject

The following is incredibly fascinating:
A conversation with Janine Benyus

Organic architecture, Biomimicry, and sustainability

I enthusiastically support the current popular culture of sustainability in our society and believe (as I have for years) that current methods of construction and our very life styles in the western world cannot be sustained indefinitely and, as it is becoming apparent, perhaps not for much longer. From my vantage point (as an architect) I feel privileged to have watched an industry that is undergoing profound changes (although very gradually over the last 30 years) in the way things are done. From the transition of designs done on paper to the use of the virtual computer model it has been very fascinating to watch.

It is my belief that we cannot and should not separate ourselves from the natural world in the ways that we have been for many years. Whether it is in the built environment or the food we eat, western society is in a current state of re-evaluation and searching for better ways. We have finally reached a point where it is becoming an economic issue (oil approaching $100 per barrel) and that makes it at least wise to change our ways.