Biomimicry Toolbox, a strategic tool for generating sustainable solutions?
2018 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 20 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
The goal of this thesis is to understand how the Biomimicry Toolbox (BT), a practical tool for applying biomimicry, currently supports strategic thinking in order to create sustainable solutions. A pragmatic qualitative research approach was used, in which the BT was analysed through the lens of the Five Level Framework (5LF), a tool for planning and analysing in complex systems and the Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development, the application of the 5LF for sustainability endeavours. Interviews were conducted with people experienced with the BT. Results show that the BT has several aspects of strategic thinking. It supports the application of a systems perspective, provides a success goal to move towards and offers tools for a strategic process to follow. The authors conclude that the BT could benefit from including understanding of the patterns and structures of the social system in relation with the earth system. Also, it can benefit from including a section on upstream thinking helping users of the BT consider root causes. Lastly, it could benefit from a strategic approach for evaluating how sustainable solutions are and include a simple and clear prioritisation process. The improvements can make the BT more impactful in supporting societies transition towards sustainability.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2018. , p. 48
Keywords [en]
Biomimicry, Sustainable Design, Strategic Thinking, Social Sustainability, Systems thinking, Nature's Unifying Patterns
National Category
Other Earth and Related Environmental Sciences
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:bth-16436OAI: oai:DiVA.org:bth-16436DiVA, id: diva2:1217235
External cooperation
Biomimicry Institute
Subject / course
SL2514 Master's Thesis (60 credits) in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability
Educational program
SLASL (Master programme in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability
Supervisors
Examiners
2018-06-252018-06-122018-06-25Bibliographically approved