Throughout history, many leading thinkers have been inspired by the parallels between nature and human design, in mathematics, engineering and other areas. Today, the huge increase in biological knowledge, developments in design engineering systems, together with the growth in computer power and developments in simulation modelling, have all made possible more comprehensive studies of nature.

Topics covered include the following: Mechanics in nature; Nature and architecture; Biomimetics; Biological studies; Solutions from nature; Water issues.

It is these developments which have prompted the reconvening of the international conference on Design and Nature. The meeting brought together researchers from around the world working on a variety of studies involving nature and their significance for modern scientific thought and design.