Harnessing Nature's Arsenal: Local Energy Solutions Inspired by Nature's own Methods in Addressing Climate Change
The Bioregions Navigator, a digital tool developed by One Earth, is revolutionising the way we view our planet by reimagining the world map based on ecological systems rather than political borders [1]. This interactive platform divides the Earth into 185 unique bioregions, each nested within one of 14 broader biogeographic realms, offering a scientifically grounded framework for understanding the planet’s living fabric [1].
Key features of the Bioregions Navigator include eco-centric mapping, which visualises the planet’s ecological diversity, and an interactive interface that allows users to explore detailed information about any region’s ecological identity [1]. The tool also integrates with platforms like the Biomimicry Institute’s AskNature, providing users with insights into how various natural systems function and offering sustainable solutions inspired by nature [1].
The Bioregions Navigator holds significant applications for conservation and climate action. In conservation, it helps target efforts to protect unique ecosystems and species assemblages, respects and integrates indigenous and local knowledge, and informs the design of ecological corridors and networks [1]. For climate action, it empowers users to develop tailored climate interventions, encourages the application of biomimicry and nature-based solutions, and facilitates collaborative, cross-sector approaches [1].
The tool serves as both an educational resource and a practical planning tool, fostering a deeper sense of ecological belonging and responsibility [1]. By helping users see not only “where we are” but also “what life-supporting systems we are part of,” it is crucial for designing interventions that are ecologically sound, culturally appropriate, and scalable across different regions.
The Bioregions Navigator is part of a growing movement of climate-focused organisations choosing collaboration over competition. It joins forces with the Biomimicry Institute’s AskNature platform, a freely accessible database of nature’s time-tested strategies featuring over 1,700 solutions and hundreds of bio-inspired innovations [1]. Together, these resources are helping communities not only survive but thrive in every bioregion on Earth.
[1] One Earth. (2022). Bioregions Navigator. Retrieved from https://bioregions.onearth.org/
- The Bioregions Navigator, with its eco-centric mapping, is a valuable tool for climate action, allowing users to develop tailored interventions based on the unique ecological systems of different bioregions.
- Each bioregion in the Bioregions Navigator is integrated with platforms like the Biomimicry Institute’s AskNature, offering insights into nature’s functions and sustainable solutions inspired by nature for climate-change mitigation.
- In addition to climate solutions, the Bioregions Navigator serves as an educational resource, fostering a deeper understanding of our planet’s ecological diversity and our role within the interconnected web of life.
- By offering a scientifically grounded framework for understanding the planet’s living fabric, the Bioregions Navigator contributes to nature conservation efforts, helping protect unique ecosystems and species assemblages across the globe.
