Adaptability of biomimicry applications in improving the sustainability in the construction industry

Abstract

Employing sustainable construction practices provides the capacity to reduce the environmental damage caused by destructive construction mechanisms, yet the effectiveness of the existing sustainable construction patterns is questionable. Meanwhile, biomimicry was introduced as a practice that involves mimicking and learning from the strategies employed by living organisms to address challenges similar to those that individuals and societies encounter. However, there is a lack of research on inferring biomimicry applications in improving traditional sustainable practices. Consequently, this study aims to investigate the adaptability of biomimicry applications in enhancing the sustainability of the construction industry. A mixed research approach was involved in achieving the study's aim. Three (3) rounds of questionnaire surveys with sixty (60) experts in the research area were conducted using the Delphi technique. The data gathered from the empirical study was analysed using statistical methods and validated with a key informant sample who are actively experienced using biomimicry practices in the construction industry. Accordingly, three (3) semi-structured interviews were conducted for validation of gathered data. The study found that biomimicry applications are crucial for enhancing construction sustainability, as currently, many projects are unlikely to achieve the desired level of sustainability. Furthermore, it was revealed that most biomimicry applications are distinctively adaptable for sustainable practices, yet the benefits, barriers and strategies of adapting biomimicry applications are common for most sustainable practices. Thus, in streamlining the link between biomimicry applications and existing sustainability practices, a mind map was developed by connecting benefits, barriers, and strategies for adapting biomimicry applications in improving existing sustainable practices. The study theoretically reveals how biomimicry applications can be utilised to attain a sustainable construction industry. Practically, the study acknowledges how biomimicry applications could be embraced with sustainable practices while manifesting how to strategically overcome the barriers that hinder the implementation of this practice.