Biophilic Solutions: Nature Has the Answers
Have you ever noticed how DNA’s spiraling structure mirrors the shape of seashells and flowers? How our circulatory system branches like tree roots? Nature doesn’t just surround us—we are nature. Our bodies, minds, and societies are woven into its rhythms, yet in today’s modern world, we’ve severed that bond, and the consequences ripple through our environment, politics, culture, and even spirituality.
Every other week, hosts Monica Olsen and Jennifer Walsh explore the profound connections between planetary health and human well-being. Through conversations with leading experts, they uncover how nature influences everything—from the way we design our cities to the way we govern, heal, and find meaning in our lives. As we face climate change, biodiversity loss, and deep societal shifts, rediscovering our place in the natural world isn’t just necessary—it’s transformative.
Join us on this biophilic journey. Follow and listen today, because nature holds the answers.
Biophilic Solutions: Nature Has the Answers
Biodesign, Chemistry, & The Future of Fashion with Dr. Karen Pearson
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of biodesign, exploring the amazing opportunities that arise when science, technology, and fashion come together. Think faux leather that’s made with kombucha, functional yarn derived from seaweed, and performance clothing that replaces nylon and spandex with naturally sourced, biodegradable protein.
Our guest is Dr. Karen Pearson, Professor of Chemistry at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and Chair of FIT’s Sustainability Council. Karen has been widely recognized for her commitment to cross-disciplinary education: she is the recipient of the President’s Award for Curricular Innovation and has been acknowledged as one of the top 100 Most Influential Women in STEM. In this episode, we discuss the intersection of science and design, the innovative work being done by FIT students and faculty, and talk through some amazing examples of biodesign in action.
Show Notes
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
- Sustainability at FIT
- Natural Dye Garden Project
- Biodesign Challenge
- Keel Labs
- Werewool
Key Words: Biophilia, Biophilic, Biophilic Design, Biodesign, Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, STEM, STEAM, Fashion, Fashion Institute of Technology, Technology, Design, Fashion Design, Materials, Innovation, Sustainability, Sustainable, Climate Change, Climate, Nature Based, Nature Based Solutions
The Biophilic Leadership Summit is the only multi-day conference entirely focused on biophilic projects, research & principles, bringing together top industry thought-leaders in an intimate natural setting to network, build partnerships and learn from each other.
Join us in Serenbe for the 7th Annual Summit on March 30 - April 1, 2025. Register today!
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