Water is life. It's a precious resource that sustains our planet's diverse ecosystems and powers the beating heart of human civilization. Yet, as our global population continues to grow and the impacts of climate change intensify, the sustainable management and treatment of water have never been more critical.

Enter the fascinating field of nature-inspired innovation - a design approach that looks to nature for inspiration, by studying how living organisms and ecosystems have evolved over billions of years to adapt to their environments, we can unlock a treasure trove of innovation for tackling our most pressing water challenges.

“The study of biological & ecological forms, functions, processes, & interactions to solve human challenges.”

— Nature-inspired Innovation

From the intricate structures of aquaporin proteins that selectively shuttle water molecules across cell membranes, to the symbiotic ecosystems of plants and microorganisms that purify wastewater, nature is a master engineer with a proven track record of success. By learning from and taking inspiration from the observed phenomena, we can develop technologies and systems that are highly effective, responsible, sustainable, and resilient.

The potential for nature-inspired innovation in the water sector is vast and exciting. Imagine highly efficient filtration membranes that mimic the selective permeability of biological membranes, allowing us to purify water with minimal energy input. Or picture living treatment systems that harness the power of plants and microbes to clean wastewater, while also providing habitat for wildlife and green spaces for communities.

From biomimetic materials and technologies to whole-system ecological designs, the water sector is ripe for a nature-inspired revolution. In this article, we'll dive into some of the most promising examples of nature-inspired innovation in action, exploring how innovators reverse engineering biological functions to create a more sustainable and resilient water future. Get ready to be inspired by visionary thinkers who are bringing its lessons to life.

The Miracle of Aquaporins

Aquaporins are a family of proteins found in the cell membranes of living organisms, from bacteria to humans. These remarkable proteins act as highly selective water channels, allowing water molecules to pass through the membrane while excluding other substances, such as salts and contaminants.

The discovery of aquaporins in the early 1990s by Dr. Peter Agre, who later won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work, opened up a whole new world of possibilities for water filtration. If we could harness the power of aquaporins in synthetic membranes, we could create highly efficient and selective water filtration systems that mimic the natural processes found in living cells.

Aquaporin A/S: Bringing Nature's Water Filters to Life

That's exactly what the Danish company Aquaporin A/S has set out to do. Founded in 2005 by Dr Peter Holme Jensen and a team of experts in aquaporin biology and membrane technology, Aquaporin A/S has developed a range of biomimetic membranes that incorporate aquaporin proteins for highly selective water transport.

The company's proprietary Aquaporin Inside® technology embeds aquaporin proteins into a robust polymer matrix, creating a membrane that mimics the structure and function of biological cell membranes. These aquaporin-based membranes have the potential to revolutionise water filtration by offering increased productivity, reduced energy consumption, and improved water quality compared to conventional reverse osmosis systems.

In conventional reverse osmosis, water is forced through a semipermeable membrane under high pressure, requiring significant energy input and resulting in a concentrated brine waste stream. Aquaporin-based membranes, on the other hand, allow water to pass through more easily and selectively, reducing the pressure and energy required for filtration and minimising the volume of waste produced.

Scaling Up Nature's Water Filters

While the potential benefits of aquaporin-based membranes are clear, scaling up this technology from the lab to practical applications has proven challenging. One of the main hurdles has been the production of stable and cost-effective aquaporin proteins for incorporation into membranes.

Aquaporin A/S has made significant strides in overcoming these challenges through the development of proprietary production methods and partnerships with leading membrane manufacturers. The company has successfully demonstrated the performance and durability of its aquaporin-based membranes in a range of pilot projects, from water purification in space to wastewater treatment in industrial settings.

However, further research and development are needed to fully realise the potential of this nature-inspired technology. Ongoing efforts are focused on optimising membrane performance, reducing production costs, and scaling up manufacturing processes to meet the growing demand for sustainable water treatment solutions.

The Future of Biomimetic Water Filtration

As the world faces increasing water scarcity and quality challenges, the need for innovative and sustainable water treatment technologies has never been greater. Aquaporin-based membranes offer a promising solution, harnessing the power of nature's water filters to create highly efficient and selective filtration systems.

While there are still hurdles to overcome in scaling up this technology, the progress made by companies like Aquaporin A/S is a testament to the potential of nature-inspired innovation in the water sector. By learning from and emulating the remarkable properties of biological membranes, we can develop water filtration systems that are not only highly effective but also inherently sustainable and energy-efficient.

As we continue to explore the frontiers of biomimetic water treatment, it's clear that nature holds the key to unlocking a more sustainable and resilient water future. With the help of aquaporins and other biological inspirations, we can create water filtration technologies that work in harmony with nature, rather than against it.

In the search for sustainable and resilient water treatment solutions, some innovators are looking beyond individual technologies and instead focusing on whole-system approaches that harness living systems (nature's ecosystems). These ecological treatment systems, also known as living machines or eco-machines, utilise the symbiotic relationships between plants, microorganisms, and other living creatures to purify water and restore aquatic habitats.

John Todd Eco-Machines: Mimicking Nature's Purification Power

One of the pioneers in this field is Dr. John Todd, an ecological designer and founder of John Todd Ecological Design. Todd's Eco-Machines are living wastewater treatment systems that mimic the natural purification processes found in wetlands, ponds, and other aquatic ecosystems.

In an Eco-Machine, wastewater flows through a series of interconnected tanks and beds, each hosting a diverse community of plants, bacteria, fungi, algae, and even fish and snails. As the water moves through the system, these living organisms work together to break down contaminants, absorb nutrients, and purify the water.

The plants in an Eco-Machine, such as water hyacinths and reeds, play a key role in the treatment process. Their roots provide a vast surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow, while also absorbing nutrients and heavy metals from the water. The bacteria, in turn, break down organic matter and convert pollutants into harmless byproducts.

But the magic of an Eco-Machine goes beyond just the individual components - it's the symbiotic relationships between the various organisms that make the system so effective. The plants provide oxygen and habitat for the microorganisms, while the microorganisms break down the contaminants that would otherwise harm the plants. It's a beautiful example of nature's circular economy in action.

Building-Scale Living Machines

One of the most exciting applications of ecological treatment systems is in the development of building-scale living machines. These systems integrate the principles of Eco-Machines into the very fabric of our built environment, creating sustainable alternatives to conventional wastewater treatment plants.

Imagine a multi-story office building where the wastewater from sinks, toilets, and showers is treated on-site by a living machine integrated into the building's architecture. The wastewater flows through a series of planted terraces, ponds, and wetlands, each hosting a diverse ecosystem of plants and microorganisms that purify the water as it moves through the system.

The treated water can then be reused for non-potable purposes, such as toilet flushing and irrigation, reducing the building's overall water footprint. But the benefits of a building-scale living machine go beyond just water treatment - these systems also provide green space for occupants, improve air quality, and create habitat for local wildlife.

Bridgewater Basin Floating Gardens *Image: Copyright Biomatrix Water 2024*

Restoring Aquatic Habitats with Floating Islands

While living machines are a powerful tool for treating wastewater, ecological treatment systems can also be used to restore and enhance natural aquatic habitats. One innovative approach is the use of floating treatment wetlands, also known as floating islands.

Companies like BioMatrix Water are at the forefront of this nature-inspired solution, creating floating structures that mimic the natural processes of wetland ecosystems. These floating islands are made up of a matrix of recycled plastic fibres that provide a stable platform for aquatic plants to grow.

As the plants grow, their roots extend down into the water, creating a vast surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonise. These bacteria break down contaminants and excess nutrients in the water, while the plants absorb pollutants and provide habitat for fish and other aquatic life.

Floating treatment wetlands can be used in a variety of settings, from stormwater ponds and canals to rivers and lakes. By mimicking the natural processes of wetland ecosystems, these systems can help to restore the health and biodiversity of aquatic habitats, while also improving water quality and providing valuable ecosystem services.

Qinhuangdao Red Ribbon Park Image: Copyright Turenscape 2024

Turenscape and Landscape/Ecological Engineering Approaches

Another exciting frontier in ecological treatment systems is the integration of nature-based solutions into landscape architecture and urban design. One company leading the charge in this field is Turenscape, a Chinese landscape architecture firm founded by Dr. Kongjian Yu.

Turenscape's approach, known as "sponge cities," utilises a variety of ecological treatment systems, such as constructed wetlands, bioswales, and permeable pavements, to manage stormwater and improve water quality at the city scale. By designing urban landscapes that mimic the natural hydrological processes of wetlands and forests, Turenscape is creating resilient and sustainable cities that work in harmony with nature.

This landscape-based approach to ecological treatment is part of a broader movement known as ecological engineering, which seeks to design and manage ecosystems for the benefit of both humans and nature. By harnessing the power of living systems to provide essential services like water treatment, habitat creation, and climate regulation, ecological engineering offers a holistic and sustainable alternative to conventional infrastructure.

The Future of Ecological Treatment Systems

As the world faces growing water challenges, from scarcity and pollution to the impacts of climate change, the need for sustainable and resilient water treatment solutions has never been greater. Ecological treatment systems, from living machines to floating wetlands to sponge cities, offer a promising path forward.

By mimicking and enhancing the natural processes of aquatic ecosystems, these nature-inspired solutions can help to purify water, restore habitats, and create more livable and resilient cities. But the potential of ecological treatment systems goes beyond just water - by integrating these living systems into our built environment, we can create a more sustainable and regenerative future for all.

As we continue to explore the frontiers of ecological design and engineering, it's clear that the answers to our most pressing challenges lie not in high-tech gadgets or chemical treatments, but in nature itself. By learning from and working with the living systems that have sustained life on Earth for billions of years, we can create a world where clean water, healthy ecosystems, and thriving communities are the norm, rather than the exception.

As we've seen, the natural world is a constant source of inspiration for sustainable water treatment and management solutions. However, the potential for nature-inspired solutions in the water sector extends far beyond filtration and purification. From energy generation to underwater propulsion, nature's designs are informing a wide range of exciting innovations.

Baleen Filters: Mimicking the Mighty Whale

One such innovation is the Baleen Filter, a technology that mimics the filtration system of baleen whales. These majestic creatures, which include species like the blue whale and the humpback whale, can filter massive volumes of water to capture tiny prey, thanks to their specialised baleen plates.

Baleen is a comb-like structure made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails. The baleen plates hang down from the whale's upper jaw, and as the whale swims through the water with its mouth open, the plates trap small organisms like krill and plankton, while allowing water to pass through.

Inspired by this natural filtration system, researchers at the University of South Australia have developed a new type of water filter that mimics the structure and function of baleen. The Baleen Filter consists of a series of thin, porous plates made of a specially designed polymer. As water flows through the plates, contaminants like microplastics and algae are trapped on the surface, while clean water passes through.

The Baleen Filter has the potential to be a low-cost, low-energy solution for water filtration in a variety of settings, from aquaculture to wastewater treatment. By mimicking the efficient filtration system of one of nature's largest creatures, this innovative technology could help to address some of the world's most pressing water challenges.

CEO Franck Sylvain of EEL Energy presenting at the One Ocean Summit. Image: Copyright EEL Energy 2022

EEL Energy: Harnessing the Power of the Eel

Another nature-inspired innovation in the water sector is EEL Energy, a French startup that is developing a new type of wave energy converter based on the undulating motion of the eel.

Eels are known for their ability to swim efficiently through the water, thanks to their long, slender bodies and undulating motion. This motion, known as anguilliform motion, allows eels to propel themselves forward with minimal energy expenditure.

Eel Energy's wave energy converter mimics this undulating motion to generate electricity from the motion of waves. The device consists of a flexible membrane that is anchored to the seafloor and floats on the surface of the water. As waves pass over the membrane, it undulates in a way that mimics the motion of an eel, driving a generator to produce electricity.

This nature-inspired design has several advantages over traditional wave energy converters. The flexible membrane allows the device to adapt to changing wave conditions, while the undulating motion is more efficient than the back-and-forth motion of many other wave energy technologies. EEL Energy's device is also designed to be more durable and less expensive than other wave energy converters, making it a promising solution for coastal communities worldwide.

FinX: Mimicking the Efficiency of Fish

While EEL Energy is harnessing the power of waves, another nature-inspired innovation is tapping into the power of flowing water. FinX, developed over more than 15 years of research and development, originally coming from applications in industry (Wavera pumps) and medicine (CorWave cardiac assistance devices). FinX is a new type of hydro and wind turbine that mimics the efficient swimming motion of fish.

FinX mimic this efficient swimming motion to generate electricity from flowing water or wind. The turbines consist of a series of flexible fins that oscillate back and forth in the flow, creating a series of vortices that drive a generator to produce electricity.

This nature-inspired design has several advantages over traditional turbine designs. The flexible fins allow the turbines to adapt to changing flow conditions, while the oscillating motion is more efficient than the rotational motion of many other turbine designs. FinX Turbines are also designed to be more durable and less expensive than traditional turbines, making them a promising solution for both hydro and wind power applications.

Four elastomer balls pump water and provide the required propulsion. The propulsion system was produced with the fused deposition modeling (FDM) generative production process. Image: Copyright Fraunhofer IPA

Fraunhofer's 3D Printed Underwater Propulsion System

Finally, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation in Germany have developed a new type of underwater propulsion system that mimics the efficient swimming motion of fish.

The system, which was created using 3D printing technology, consists of a flexible silicone fin that is attached to a small underwater vehicle. As the fin oscillates back and forth, it creates a series of vortices in the water that propel the vehicle forward, much like the tail fin of a fish.

This nature-inspired design has several advantages over traditional propeller-based propulsion systems. The flexible fin allows the vehicle to manoeuvre more easily in tight spaces, while the oscillating motion is quieter and more efficient than the rotational motion of a propeller. The 3D printed design also allows for greater customization and faster prototyping, making it a promising solution for a wide range of underwater applications, from marine research to underwater robotics.

The Future of Biomimetic Innovation in the Water Sector

From filtration to energy generation to underwater propulsion, the examples we've explored here are just a few of the many ways that nature-inspired innovation is driving innovation in the water sector. As we continue to face complex challenges related to water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, nature's designs will undoubtedly inspire even more sustainable and resilient solutions.

But the potential for nature-inspired innovation in the water sector goes beyond just individual technologies. By learning from and taking inspiration living systems, we can create more holistic and integrated approaches to water management that prioritise sustainability, resilience, and regeneration.

This shift towards a more biomimetic approach to water management will require collaboration across disciplines, from biology and ecology to engineering and design. It will also require a willingness to think outside the box and challenge conventional ways of doing things.

But the rewards of this nature-inspired approach are clear. By tapping into the phenomena found in the natural world, we can create a more sustainable and resilient water future for all. And in doing so, we can build a world that works in harmony with nature, rather than against it.

As we've seen, the field of nature-inspired innovation is driving a wide range of exciting innovations in the water sector, from filtration and purification to energy generation and underwater propulsion. But the potential for nature-inspired solutions in this space is far from exhausted. Some of the most promising developments are just beginning to emerge from the world of scientific research and entrepreneurial innovation.

Mangrove-Based Shrimp Feed: A Sustainable Aquaculture Solution

One such emerging innovation is the development of mangrove-based shrimp feed as a sustainable alternative to traditional aquaculture practices. Shrimp farming is a major industry in many coastal regions around the world, but it often relies on unsustainable practices like the destruction of mangrove forests to create shrimp ponds.

But what if the solution to this problem could be found in the mangroves themselves? That's the idea behind a new type of shrimp feed being developed by researchers at the University of Queensland in Australia. The feed is made from the leaves of the mangrove tree, which are rich in nutrients and have natural antibacterial properties.

By using mangrove-based feed, shrimp farmers can not only reduce their environmental impact but also improve the health and quality of their shrimp. By creating a market for mangrove products, this innovation could also provide an economic incentive for the conservation and restoration of these vital coastal ecosystems.

Diatom-Inspired Filtration: The Future of Selective Separation

Another exciting area of emerging research is the development of new filtration technologies inspired by the intricate structures of diatoms. Diatoms are a type of algae that are known for their ability to create complex, porous silica shells that allow them to selectively filter nutrients from the water.

Researchers at the Swedish startup Retein (formerly Aquammodate) are taking inspiration from these natural filtration systems to develop new types of selective separation membranes. By mimicking the intricate pore structures of diatom shells, these membranes could enable highly efficient and selective filtration of water and other fluids.

The potential applications of this technology are vast, from water purification and desalination to chemical and pharmaceutical processing. By taking inspiration from one of nature's most ancient and successful filtration systems, Retein is paving the way for a new generation of sustainable and efficient separation technologies.

Nano-Engineered Membranes: The Next Frontier in Filtration

At the same time, advances in nanotechnology are opening up new possibilities for the development of highly efficient and selective filtration membranes. By engineering materials at the nanoscale, researchers are creating membranes with unprecedented levels of permeability, selectivity, and fouling resistance.

One promising example of this approach is the development of graphene oxide membranes for water purification. Graphene oxide is a two-dimensional material that consists of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, with oxygen and hydrogen atoms attached to the surface.

By carefully controlling the spacing between the graphene oxide sheets, researchers have created membranes with pores that are just the right size to allow water molecules to pass through while blocking larger contaminants like salts and pollutants. These membranes have the potential to revolutionise the field of water purification, enabling highly efficient and cost-effective desalination and wastewater treatment.

The Food-Energy-Water Nexus: A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

Finally, it's important to recognize that the development of sustainable water solutions cannot happen in isolation. Water is intimately connected to other critical systems like energy and food production, and any truly sustainable approach to water management must take these interconnections into account.

This is the idea behind the Food-Energy-Water Nexus, a framework for understanding and managing the complex interactions between these three critical systems. The Nexus approach recognizes that food, energy, and water are inextricably linked and that any attempt to address challenges in one area must consider the impacts on the others.

For example, the production of energy often requires large amounts of water for cooling and other processes, while the production of food is heavily dependent on both water and energy inputs. At the same time, the availability and quality of water resources can be heavily impacted by energy and agricultural practices.

By taking a Nexus approach to water management, we can develop more holistic and integrated solutions that optimise the use of resources across all three systems. This might involve the development of new technologies that reduce the water and energy footprint of food production, or the implementation of policies that incentivize the sustainable use of water in energy and agricultural systems.

The Future Nature-Inspired Water Innovation

The potential for biomimetic water solutions is immense, from low-energy mixing to ecological treatment systems. However realizing this potential requires more than just technological advances. It demands a commitment to research, development, and implementation, coupled with a willingness to challenge conventional approaches.

We must invest in the underlying science and engineering while creating conducive policy and market conditions to scale up these nature-inspired solutions globally. Crucially, we must recognize water as part of an interconnected web involving energy, food, and ecosystems.

A holistic, systems-level approach like the Food-Energy-Water Nexus is vital for understanding and managing these complex interactions. By taking a nexus approach, we can develop solutions that optimize water use and quality while supporting sustainable energy, food security, and ecosystem health.

Ultimately, the key lies in working with, not against, living systems that have sustained life for billions of years. By taking inspiration from nature and adopting an integrated water management approach, we can build a world with clean water accessible to all, where our water systems adapt and thrive amidst complex challenges.

Let us draw inspiration from nature and courageously pursue a future where water innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. The solutions surround us; we need the curiosity to seek and the insights to learn.

Hi, we're Biomimicry Innovation Lab. We partner with founders and leaders to transform ideas into reality, drawing inspiration from transformative solutions found in nature. Our approach? Harnessing the latest scientific research with innovative tools to deliver solutions to complex challenges.

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Recommended Books

Pawlyn, M. (2019). Biomimicry in architecture. Routledge.

Todd, J., & Todd, N. J. (1993). From Eco-Cities to Living Machines: Principles of Ecological Design. North Atlantic Books.

Research Labs

Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University - https://wyss.harvard.edu

Centre for Nature Inspired Engineering at University College London - https://www.natureinspiredengineering.org.uk

Water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink

The Miracle of Aquaporins