Fungi Tiles
Summary
Scientists from Nanyang Technological University Singapore, working with biomimicry firm bioSEA, have developed innovative “fungi tiles” made from fungal mycelium and bamboo shavings that could help cool buildings without using energy. Building on the natural insulating properties of mycelium-based materials, the team enhanced the tiles with a bumpy, wrinkled surface inspired by how elephants regulate body heat through their skin. Laboratory tests have shown that these tiles can effectively regulate heat, and researchers are now moving towards scaling up production and testing them on real building facades as a potential sustainable alternative to conventional insulation.
Application
Advancements in science and technology are opening up new ways for humans to live sustainably without degrading the environment. By learning from nature and applying biomimicry, innovations such as energy-free cooling materials show how human needs can be met while reducing resource consumption and carbon emissions. Instead of relying on energy-intensive solutions that strain ecosystems, such technologies align human development with natural processes, demonstrating that progress does not have to come at the expense of environmental destruction, but can instead support long-term ecological balance.