From the branches of trees and rivers to the intricate network of capillaries in the human body, fractal geometry is the natural smart allocation of energy and resources. These patterns are not only visually appealing, but they also serve as a model for long-term development. Modern design, on the other hand, frequently rejects it in favor of a decentralized approach that separates scale and systems. Is human creation truly better than nature?
In nature, a fractal is a geometric structure that repeats itself at different scales, also known as “self-similarity.” For example, consider the previously described branching structure of tree branches, the human physical capillary system, and rivers’ branching networks.”Van and Cowan (2010) feel that nature’s functions and shapes are skillfully coordinated across several scales to provide a greater context for our design. Because they all display fractal qualities, such as elegant and efficient resource and energy distribution. In ecodesign, fractal logic integrates micro and macro levels via “scale links,” such as incorporating miniature ecosystems into urban development to suit the needs of local functions while also promoting ecological balance. For instance, consider the High Line wetland system in New York. It connects micro-wetland systems with community drainage systems. These wetlands not only absorb and filter stormwater pollutants but also promote biodiversity and reduce urban flooding. This design emulates the adaptability of natural wetlands and highlights the power of fractal intelligence in ecological balance and resource optimization.
Walk the line (no date) Hudson Yards. Available at: https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/high-line (Accessed: 01 December 2024).
Returning to the question: Is human design truly better than nature? I don’t completely agree. Modern design frequently overemphasizes technical efficiency, with speedy problem solving as the primary goal. According to Van and Cowan (2010), evolution is a design process that nature does on a constant basis. A typical organism has undergone at least one million years of intensive research and development, resulting in a pattern of optimal resource allocation and efficient circulation, which our human design cannot match. For example, the fractal shape of the leaves maximizes photosynthesis while maintaining a waste-free biological cycle. On the contrary, short-sighted human design harms the ecosystem while also endangering human health (Van and Cowan, 2010). Second, design in nature is extremely adaptive. Examples include water storage systems seen in desert plants. Human design is frequently constrained by a trend towards standardization and a lack of localism. Best of all, natural design is both useful and aesthetically pleasing. Spider webs, for example, are strong natural hunting weapons with stunning symmetry.
树叶也能做美食,这12种树叶都可以吃,最后一种让人意想不到 (2021) 新浪网. Available at: https://k.sina.cn/article_7513852747_1bfdc4b4b0010173rh.html (Accessed: 01 December 2024).
蜘蛛网能黏万物，为啥黏不住蜘蛛？_澎湃号·湃客_澎湃新闻-the paper (no date) _澎湃号·湃客_澎湃新闻-The Paper. Available at: https://www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_forward_27622224 (Accessed: 01 December 2024).
However, I cannot argue that human design has advantages, whereas nature design has limitations. Natural design evolves over time and cannot adjust swiftly to sudden difficulties. Its application is limited in many high-tech industries. On the contrary, the essential feature of human design is innovation. It has the ability to swiftly surpass the limits of nature and produce something genuinely innovative. Flying machines, for example, overcome the physical limits of birds to create more efficient modes of transportation for people. So, I believe the ideal option for human design right now is to draw inspiration from nature while being inventive.
Birds-flying videos: Download 246+ free 4K & HD stock footage clips – pixabay. Available at: https://pixabay.com/videos/search/birds-flying/ (Accessed: 01 December 2024).
Van and Cowan (2010) argue that by explicitly including ecology in design, humans may significantly lessen the negative environmental impact that we create and construct. Human and natural design have distinct advantages and limitations; thus, discussing “superiority” is incomplete. What is more significant is the mix of the two: by emulating nature’s wisdom while using human creativity, we may create solutions that are more sustainable, adaptive, and functional. This “design collaboration” is the primary direction for future development.
Bibliography:
1.Van der Ryn, S. and Cowan, S. (2010) Ecological design. Washington: Island Press.
