Can the built environment function like nature?

Abstract

The Positive Performance Methodology (PPM), developed by Biomimicry 3.8, draws key principles from nature and how healthy ecosystems function. Its framework consists of four steps: 1. IDENTIFY a reference ecosystem in the local context and the conditions of the place and/or site.2. QUANTIFY baseline performance and targets based on the local reference ecosystems. 3. CREATE design guidelines and strategies to emulate ecosystem performance metrics.4. IMPLEMENT the strategies to move towards positive and regenerative performance and assess their effectiveness.The PPM can be applied to the built environment at different scales – building, development, or city –and to various sectors as wide-ranging as agriculture, forestry, transportation, housing, and education. Applied appropriately, it can help projects meet specific ecological performance goals that contribute to a regenerative, harmonious urban future.