Source: Mathieu Dessus // Flickr
3 minute lesson
Meet the Planet’s Most Remarkable Engineers
Why are ant hills shaped that way? What about termite mounds, or prairie dog holes?
Over years of trial and error, animal engineers mastered air conditioning, airflow, and “vertical farming”. All without blueprints, electricity, or a leader. So, let’s learn about how insects and other animals design their homes to do all of this!
Why It Matters
Compared to evolution, humans have barely begun to scratch the surface when it comes to design. Particularly when it comes to living in a more compatible way with the environment, we have a lot to learn from nature. Using nature as inspiration for new designs is a great way to incorporate efficiency and sustainability into everyday life.
The potential for innovation seems endless when we consider what nature has already designed.
Let's Talk About It
It’s Okay To Be Smart
Joe Hanson, Ph.D. is a curious group of atoms in a curious universe, and he’s here to tell you how it all works. New science videos come out every week on the It’s Okay To Be Smart Channel!
Find Joe on Twitter: @okaytobesmart or @DrJoeHanson.