The Nature Principle

Biomimicry, or “respectful imitation,” is the idea that “all human inventions have already appeared in nature, in more elegant form and at less cost to the environment” (189). Louv uses the example of the architect who designed a building to mimic the airflow of a termite mound. In this case, the termites have already built a system that works efficiently and their design inspired the architect to create the same efficiency. When it comes to architecture, Louv considers nature the “design partner; not the problem, but the solution” (190). 

Biophilia describes humanity’s need to be close to nature. Louv addresses this term regarding biophilic architecture and design. He provides several examples of how we can design our way closer to nature and the effect that this has on our well-being.

Ecological unconscious is the idea that all natural things are connected. Louv believes that we are not aware of the full effects of nature and that nature is full of mysterious wonder, a wonder that instills a spiritual dimension to our connection with it.