Biodesign glossary

1. Binder refers to a substance used to hold together fibres, particles, or other material components in a composite or solid form.

2. In bio-based construction and biocomposites, binders are critical for ensuring mechanical stability and structural cohesion.

3. Binders may be natural (e.g. starch, casein, lignin, alginate) or synthetic, though sustainable material design increasingly favors biodegradable or plant-derived binders.

4. In material innovation, the choice of binder affects not only strength and durability but also biodegradability, toxicity, and carbon footprint of the final product.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Future Materials Bank. (n.d.). Lexicon Entry: Binder. https://www.futurematerialsbank.com/lexicon/
– EN 16575:2014. Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. https://www.en-standard.eu/bs-en-16575-2014-bio-based-products-vocabulary/

1. In English, the word “bio” is connected with life and living things. It is often used as an abbreviation for the noun “biology” or the adjective “biological”. “Bio” is problematic in French, where it typically refers to “organic” (as in organic food), which does not necessarily mean the same thing.

2. “Bio” is defined as “connected with life and living things.”

3. The prefix “bio-” derives from the Greek root bios, meaning “life”, and gives rise to many scientific terms related to life sciences, such as “biology” (the science of life and living beings).

4. More broadly, “bio-” relates to life. From Greek bios ‘(course of) human life’. In modern scientific usage, it is extended to mean “organic life”.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon: Bio. Link
– Healing Materialities & Design. Glossary Entry: Bio. Link
– Oxford Languages. Definition of Bio. Link

1. Bio art refers to art forms that relate in some way to biology, biotechnology, and life. This can include using living organisms (cells, bacteria, fungi, algae, plants), biological processes (such as growth or decay), or laboratory methods as part of the creative medium or concept.

2. The practice often explores themes such as the ethics of life manipulation, ecological interdependence, human-nonhuman relations, and biopolitics.

3. Bio art exists at the intersection of science and the humanities, frequently requiring collaboration with researchers and access to laboratory settings.

4. It challenges traditional boundaries in both art and science by incorporating living matter into critical and experiential artworks.

Sources
– Zurr, I., & Catts, O. (2003). Bio-art as a practice of life. Cited in: Healing Materialities & Design. Glossary Entry: Bio Art. Link

1. The bioeconomy (or bio-based economy) refers to the set of economic activities related to the invention, development, production, and use of biological products and processes. This includes sectors like agriculture, forestry, marine, biotechnology, bioenergy, and waste management.

2. The bioeconomy overlaps with the circular economy in its goals to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, utilize renewable resources, and close material loops.

3. Scholars identify three “ideal type” visions of the bioeconomy:

   • (a) A biotechnology vision, focused on advancing and commercializing biotechnology across sectors.

   • (b) A bioresource vision, centered on improving the production and conversion of biological raw materials like biomass, algae, or agricultural waste.

   • (c) A bioecology vision, which emphasizes ecological cycles, biodiversity, regional resilience, and regenerative land-use practices.

4. The bioeconomy also aims to support social transformation: beyond ecological benefits, it offers regional job creation, rural revitalization, and opportunities for decentralized innovation.

5. It is a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and substituting fossil-derived inputs with renewable biological ones — but also raises questions about land use, equity, and ecological limits.

Sources
– D’Adamo, I., Falcone, P. M., & Morone, P. (2021). A new socio-technical pattern for the future bioeconomy. Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Bugge, M. M., Hansen, T., & Klitkou, A. (2016). What is the bioeconomy? A review of the literature. Sustainability, 8(7), 691. https://doi.org/10.3390/su8070691
– Hausknost, D., Schriefl, E., Lauk, C., & Kalt, G. (2017). A transition to which bioeconomy? An exploration of diverging techno-political choices. Journal of Cleaner Production, 172, 3933–3943. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.03.014

1. Biobased refers to materials or products that are wholly or partially derived from biomass — renewable biological sources such as plants, animals, or microorganisms.

2. Biobased products include industrial goods like bioplastics, inks, detergents, and textiles, and exclude materials of fossil origin or embedded in geological formations.

3. Biobased does not mean biodegradable: while many biobased materials are biodegradable (e.g., starch, PHA), others are not (e.g., bio-PE). Similarly, some fossil-derived polymers (e.g., PCL) may be biodegradable.

4. Biobased materials may be traditional (like wood, leather, and cotton) or highly engineered, including biosynthetic, biofabricated, and bioassembled materials.

5. The bio content of such materials varies widely, from less than 10% to 100%, depending on formulation and production processes.

6. The term overlaps with “biomaterials” in many design and sustainability contexts, although technically they are not always interchangeable.

7. Sustainable biobased products are defined as those with recycling potential and triggered biodegradability under composting conditions, along with commercial viability and ecological compatibility.

8. In the pre-industrial era, biobased materials (e.g., natural fibers, resins, plant-based coatings) formed the basis of construction and manufacture. Today, they’re being reintroduced with scientific advancements.

9. The European Standard EN 16575 defines “biobased product” as a product wholly or partly derived from biomass, while excluding fossil or mineral-based content.

10. Classification of biobased materials includes challenges: additives, synthetic blends, and manufacturing steps often affect recyclability, degradability, and circularity.

11. Design research and projects such as Prototyping Circulair and Fashion for Good often use the term interchangeably with “biomaterials,” further underlining its hybrid, context-driven nature.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Curran, M. A. (2010). Biobased Materials. In Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. Wiley. Link
– D’Adamo, I., et al. (2021). Biocomposites and sustainability. Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– European Bioplastics. Bioplastics: Biobased and Biodegradable. Link
– European Commission. Bio-based Products Sector. Link
– EN 16575. (2014). Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. Link
– Eichhorn, S., & Gandini, A. (2010). Materials from Renewable Resources.
– Mohanty, A. K., Misra, M., & Drzal, L. T. (2002). Sustainable bio-based materials. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 10(1), 19–26.
– Wikipedia. Bio-based Material. Link
– Dezeen. (2021). Biomaterials in design and architecture. Link
– Lifegate. The future of biomaterials in design. Link
– NaturePlast. The Bioplastics Market. Link
– Prototyping Circulair. Link
– EUBIA. Wiki: Bio-based products. Link
– ACS Green Chemistry Institute. Biobased Chemicals. Link

1. Biobased content refers to the fraction of a product that is derived from biomass, such as plants, trees, or other renewable biological materials.

2. This measure indicates how much of a product’s composition originates from biological versus fossil sources.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– EN Standard. (2014). BS EN 16575: Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. Link

1. The Biobased Economy (BBE) refers to an economic system in which the production of goods and services is increasingly based on renewable biological resources rather than fossil-based ones.

2. It includes key sectors such as food and feed, biofuels, bioenergy, bioplastics, and bio-based chemicals, all of which rely on biomass as a primary input.

3. The BBE concept overlaps with the Circular Economy (CE) in that both aim to reduce waste, close material loops, and promote sustainability — but the BBE emphasizes biological origins and the biosphere as a renewable resource base.

4. According to systems thinking (e.g., the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s butterfly diagram), materials that originate in the biosphere (like crops or algae) may be converted into products for use in the technosphere (e.g., bio-based polymers), where they gain new material and economic value.

5. The BBE concept is central to the development of biorefineries, which transform raw biomass into multiple value streams, supporting decarbonization and rural economic development.

Sources
– D’Adamo, I., Falcone, P. M., & Morone, P. (2021). A new socio-technical pattern for the future bioeconomy. Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Circular Economy System Diagram (Butterfly Diagram). Link

1. Biocomposites are hybrid materials made by combining bio-based or natural fibers (e.g., hemp, flax, jute) with bio-based and/or biodegradable polymers to form a material that combines the strengths of both components.

2. Often referred to as “green composites”, these materials are typically developed from renewable resources, and are expected to be biodegradable — though biodegradability ultimately depends on the polymer’s chemical structure and curing process.

3. Thermoset-based biocomposites generally have less recyclability than thermoplastic-based ones, although thermoplastics often present a higher environmental impact if not managed properly.

4. Beyond performance benefits, biocomposites are valued for their carbon dioxide neutrality, since bio-based inputs can absorb atmospheric CO₂ during growth, offsetting emissions from production or use.

5. Biocomposites are increasingly used in automotive, construction, packaging, and product design sectors as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics and composites.

Sources
– D’Adamo, I., Falcone, P. M., & Morone, P. (2021). A new socio-technical pattern for the future bioeconomy. Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– Mohanty, A. K., Misra, M., & Drzal, L. T. (2002). Sustainable bio-composites from renewable resources: Opportunities and challenges in the green materials world. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 10(1), 19–26. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021013921916

1. Biodegradable refers to a material’s ability to break down into natural substances such as water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and biomass through the action of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, algae) under aerobic or anaerobic conditions.

2. The biodegradability of a material depends on its chemical structure, not its origin. For example, some fossil-based plastics may be biodegradable, while some biobased materials are not.

3. Biodegradation involves a chemical transformation, often following an initial disintegration phase (physical breakdown), after which microorganisms convert the material into environmentally safe end products.

4. Materials labeled “oxo-degradable” may fragment under UV or oxygen exposure but do not fully biodegrade — instead leaving behind microplastics, which persist in ecosystems.

5. Standards such as EN 13432, EN 14995, and other European norms define criteria for industrial compostabilityand biodegradability, including time frames, residual toxicity, and breakdown completeness.

6. In sustainable design and materials development, biodegradability is seen as a desired property, but must be contextualized: biodegradation only occurs under specific conditions (e.g., composting, microbial-rich soil) and is not guaranteed in all disposal scenarios.

7. Misuse or mislabeling of terms like “biodegradable” can contribute to greenwashing — especially when environmental breakdown is not possible in the intended end-of-life pathway (e.g., landfill, ocean).

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– D’Adamo, I., Falcone, P. M., & Morone, P. (2021). Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– European Bioplastics. Bioplastics Explained. Link
– European Standard EN 16575:2014. Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. Link
– Mohanty, A. K., Misra, M., & Drzal, L. T. (2002). Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 10(1), 19–26. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021013921916
– NaturePlast. Origin of Bioplastic. Link
– Dezeen. Biomaterials in Design 2021. Link
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon Entry: Biodegradable. Link
– Bioeconomy Library. InnProBio Factsheets. PDF Link
– Wikipedia. Bio-based Material. Link
– Eichhorn, S., Gandini, A. (2010). Materials from Renewable Resources.
– Wu, C. S., & others. Biodegradation mechanisms and standards.
– Bhatia, S. K., et al. (2019). Microbial degradation of bioplastics. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 10(9), 3722. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms10093722
– ResearchGate. Developing Successful Biobased Products. Link
– Chamas, A., et al. (2020). Degradation rates of plastics. Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, 1, 44–54.

1. Bioderived describes materials or products that are derived from biological sources, such as plants, animals, or microorganisms, rather than being synthesized from petrochemicals or other non-renewable inputs.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Biodesign refers to the practice of designing with, of, or for biology, integrating living organisms, biological systems, or natural processes directly into the design process or final product.

2. It is considered an emerging and often radical design approach, drawing on biological tenets and incorporating living materials such as bacteria, algae, fungi, or plants into structures, objects, or tools (Myers, 2012).

3. Biodesign emphasizes co-creation with living systems, where design is not only inspired by biology but actively engages with it — using organisms as building blocks, material sources, energy systems, purifiers, or even digital storage.

4. It builds upon the scientific foundations of biofabrication (rooted in biomedical engineering) and extends them into design disciplines, with aims that include sustainability, circularity, and post-anthropocentric thinking.

5. Biodesign encourages practitioners to observe, collaborate, and prototype with biological actors — not merely as passive material sources, but as active participants in the design process.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Myers, W. (2012). BioDesign: Nature + Science + Creativity. Thames & Hudson. Cited in: Healing Materialities & Design. Link
– Jansen, R., & Zwaag, C. van der. (2022). Designing with Living Organisms: On Biodesign and Co-Creation. TU Delft. PDF Link
– Vox. (2020). What is Biodesign? YouTube Video

1. Biofabricated ingredients are building blocks produced by living cells or microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, or algae. These ingredients include complex proteins like silk or collagen and are used as foundational materials in the development of biobased and biosynthetic products.

2. They may be used in both natural polymers (e.g. microbial silk) and synthetic polymers (e.g. bio-nylon), depending on how the biological outputs are further processed.

3. Biofabricated ingredients are not ready-to-use materials; they typically require additional mechanical, chemical, or thermal processing to be transformed into functional, macroscale materials.

4. Unlike bioassembled materials, which are grown into shape, biofabricated ingredients function as intermediate components, often incorporated into larger manufacturing chains.

5. These ingredients are central to biosynthetic innovation, enabling the shift from fossil-derived to biologically produced inputs in industries such as textiles, cosmetics, and bioplastics.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Jansen, R., & van der Zwaag, C. (2022). Biofabricated and Bioassembled Material Systems: A Taxonomy for Material-Driven Biodesign. Sustainability, 14(1), 570. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010570

1. Biofabricated materials are produced by living cells or microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, mycelium, or mammalian cells. These living systems are used to create the structural or chemical foundations of materials.

2. Biofabrication involves the growth of materials from biological systems rather than their assembly from pre-existing components, making it distinct from conventional fabrication techniques.

3. Biofabrication was originally developed in biomedical science, particularly in tissue engineering, and has since been adopted in design, architecture, fashion, and materials innovation.

4. The biofabrication process may produce either intermediate biofabricated ingredients (e.g. biosynthetic silk) or final materials that directly embody the grown structure (e.g. bacterial cellulose sheets, mycelium foams).

5. These materials represent a key branch of biodesign, and contrast with bioassembled materials, which are grown into their final form, whereas biofabricated materials often require post-processing steps such as molding, curing, or weaving.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Mironov, V., Visconti, R. P., Markwald, R. R., & Forgacs, G. (2009). Organ printing: Tissue spheroids as building blocks. Biomaterials, 30(12), 2164–2174.
– Pavlovich, M. J., et al. (2016). Applications of biofabricated materials beyond biomedical uses. Journal of Cleaner Production, 170, 1132–1141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.03.081
– Jansen, R., & van der Zwaag, C. (2022). Biofabricated and Bioassembled Material Systems. Sustainability, 14(1), 570. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010570
– Healing Materialities & Design. (n.d.). Biofabrication. Link

1. Biogenic refers to substances or materials that are produced through natural processes by living organisms, such as plants, animals, bacteria, or fungi.

2. These materials are not fossilized or derived from fossil fuels, but rather result from current or recent biological activity.

3. The term is often used in contrast with abiotic (non-living origin) or fossil-based resources, especially in the context of material sourcing, climate accounting, or life cycle assessments.

4. Examples of biogenic materials include cellulose, starch, proteins, and natural oils, which can serve as inputs for biobased products.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Bioinspired refers to the development of novel materials, devices, or structures that are inspired by biological systems, particularly the strategies and adaptations that have evolved in nature over millions of years.

2. These designs and materials do not necessarily involve biological matter but are instead engineered to replicate the structures, properties, or functions observed in nature.

3. Bioinspired materials are often synthetic but exhibit characteristics found in natural systems, such as strength, flexibility, self-healing, or light sensitivity.

4. Examples include:

   • Light-harvesting photonic materials that mimic photosynthesis.

   • Structural composites inspired by nacre (mother-of-pearl).

   • Metal actuators that emulate the movements of jellyfish.

5. Bioinspired design bridges biology and engineering, and plays a key role in biomimetics, material science, and sustainable innovation.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Biological describes anything connected with the natural processes of living organisms, including microscopic entities like bacteria, fungi, and cells.

2. It emphasizes the natural, organic, and life-derived aspects of materials, systems, or functions—often in contrast to purely synthetic or inert designs.

Sources
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon: Biological. Link

1. Biomanufacture refers to the production of biological molecules and materials using living systems, such as microorganisms or cell cultures, often carried out at commercial scale.

2. This process leverages biological systems’ abilities to synthesize complex compounds, from bio-based additives to bioplastics, using fermentation, cell culture, or other bioprocessing techniques.

3. Biomanufacturing is central to industries like pharmaceuticals, bioproducts, biofuels, and food technology, enabling scalable and sustainable production routes.

4. Unlike traditional manufacturing—typically reliant on chemical synthesis or petrochemicals—biomanufacture is often lower in energy use, offers higher specificity, and can be more environmentally friendly, particularly when using renewable feedstocks.

5. Common biomanufactured outputs include proteins, enzymes, biopolymers, lipids, and other functional biomolecules that serve as building blocks for advanced biodesigned products.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Biomass refers to raw material of biological origin, such as plants, animals, algae, or microorganisms, used as a resource for energy, materials, or manufacturing.

2. Biomass excludes materials embedded in geological formations or those that have been transformed into fossilized substances like coal or oil.

3. It plays a key role in carbon sequestration, as plant matter captures CO₂ from the atmosphere during growth and converts it into usable biomass via photosynthesis.

4. Biomass can be processed into bioenergy, bioplastics, biofuels, fertilizers, or serve as a base material for biomanufacturing.

5. It is central to biobased economies, circular material systems, and sustainable design due to its renewabilityand potential for low-impact lifecycle use.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Dezeen. (2021). Dezeen Guide to Biomaterials in Architecture and Design. Link
– European Standard EN 16575. Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. Link

1. Biomaterial is a broad and commonly used term referring to any material that has a biological association. In contemporary usage, especially in design and sustainability fields, it indicates materials derived from renewable, living sources such as plants, animals, fungi, or microorganisms.

2. Biomaterials are generally considered biobased, though the biological content may range from less than 10% to 100%, and the term does not necessarily specify origin, processing method, or sustainability performance.

3. Examples include mycelium, hemp, algae, chitin, leather alternatives, bioplastics, straw, bamboo, wood, and cellulose.

4. In the context of biomedicine, the term specifically refers to engineered substances designed to interact with biological systems for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes, such as implants.

5. In design and the bioeconomy, biomaterial often overlaps with terms like biobased material, biofabricated material, or biosynthetic material, although definitions may vary between industries.

6. The term has evolved from its technical use in biomedical sciences to become a shorthand in the circular economy, architecture, and fashion for describing materials that are more ecologically integrated, though not necessarily sustainable or biodegradable by default.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Dezeen. (2021). Dezeen Guide to Biomaterials in Architecture and Design. Link
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon: Biomaterial. Link
– European Environment Agency. (2018). Circular Economy and Bioeconomy. Link
– Ginsberg, A. D., & Chieza, N. (2018). Designing with Biology.
– Wikipedia. Bio-based Material. Link
– Cambridge Dictionary. (2021). Definition of Biomaterial.
– Oxford Languages. Definition of Biomaterial. Link
– Luzi, F., Torre, L., & Puglia, D. (2022). Biomaterials and Sustainability. Sustainability, 14(1), 570. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010570

1. Biomimicry is the practice of learning from and emulating strategies found in nature to solve human design and engineering challenges. It draws inspiration from biological forms, processes, and ecosystems.

2. The goal is not to copy nature directly, but to understand how life functions and then apply those principles to design more efficient, sustainable, and innovative solutions.

3. Examples of biomimicry include the Japanese Shinkansen Bullet Train, whose aerodynamic nose design was inspired by the kingfisher’s beak, and Speedo’s sharkskin-like swimsuits, which reduce drag in water.

4. Biomimicry does not imply that the resulting material or technology is biological or biobased. It is conceptual and functional, often translated into synthetic or engineered materials.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Benyus, J. M. (2002). Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature. Harper Perennial.
– Bar-Cohen, Y. (2006). Biomimetics: Biologically Inspired Technologies. CRC Press.
– Vincent, J. F. V., Bogatyreva, O. A., Bogatyrev, N. R., Bowyer, A., & Pahl, A.-K. (2006). Biomimetics: Its practice and theory. Journal of the Royal Society Interface, 3(9), 471–482. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2006.0127 

1. Biophilia refers to the innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world. This concept, popularized by biologist Edward O. Wilson in 1984, suggests that humans evolved in nature and are thus inherently drawn to living systems and life forms.

2. The psychoanalyst Erich Fromm introduced the idea earlier in 1964 as an orientation defined by a “love for neighbour and love of life”, emphasizing emotional and ethical connections to living things.

3. In architecture and design, biophilia underpins the practice of biophilic design, which enhances human well-being by increasing connectivity with nature—physically, visually, or symbolically—through materials, patterns, daylight, plants, or ecosystems.

4. Biophilia does not only inform aesthetic choices but can influence psychological, cognitive, and physiological health, leading to environments that reduce stress, enhance creativity, and promote healing.

Sources
– Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press.
– Fromm, E. (1964). The Heart of Man: Its Genius for Good and Evil. Harper & Row.
– Söderlund, J. (2019). The Biophilia Effect: A Scientific and Spiritual Exploration of the Healing Bond Between Humans and Nature.
– Healing Materialities & Design. Biophilia. Link
– Kellert, S. R., Heerwagen, J. H., & Mador, M. (Eds.). (2008). Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life. Wiley.

1. Bioplastics are not a single material, but a family of plastic materials with differing properties and applications.

2. According to European Bioplastics, a material is classified as a bioplastic if it is either biobased, biodegradable, or both.

3. Biobased plastics are made (partially or wholly) from biological sources like corn starch, sugarcane, vegetable fats and oils, woodchips, or recycled food waste.

4. Biodegradable plastics can break down through microbial action into natural substances like CO₂, water, and biomass—but only under specific conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, oxygen).

5. Importantly, not all biobased plastics are biodegradable, and not all biodegradable plastics are biobased. For instance, some fossil-fuel–derived plastics are engineered to biodegrade.

6. In commercial use, bioplastics are commonly produced from renewable biomass through bacterial fermentation, offering a route toward reduced environmental impact when designed and processed appropriately.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– European Bioplastics. Bioplastics Definition and Facts. Link
– NaturePlast. Origin of Bioplastics. Link
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon: Bioplastic. Link
– Walker, S., & Rothman, R. (2017). Life cycle assessment of bioplastics: A review of recent literature. Design Issues, 33(3), 76–90. https://doi.org/10.1080/14606925.2017.1352684
– Singh, P., & Sharma, V. P. (2009). Integrated approach for biodegradation of plastics. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 10(9), 3722–3742. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms10093722

1. Bioreceptivity is defined as “the aptitude of a material (or any other inanimate object) to be colonised by one or several groups of living organisms” (Guillitte, 1995).

2. In design and architecture, bioreceptive design explores how materials can be intentionally created or adapted to support the growth of life—such as mosses, algae, or lichens—on their surfaces.

3. Cruz and Beckett (2016) were among the first to articulate a clear connection between bioreceptivity and architectural practice, describing it as “a new material phenomenon that is changing the environmental and biologically-integrated performativity of architecture.”

4. Extending this to design more broadly, Pollini and Rognoli (2021) define bioreceptive design as occurring whenever a “material/artifact is intentionally designed to be colonized by life forms,” regardless of the type of organisms, environments, or applications involved.

Sources
– Guillitte, O. (1995). Bioreceptivity: Definition and Applications to the Built Environment.
– Cruz, M., & Beckett, M. (2016). Bioreceptive Design in Architecture.
– Pollini, B., & Rognoli, V. (2021). Material Design for Life Integration.
– Healing Materialities & Design. Bioreceptivity and Bio-Integration. Link

1. A biorefinery is an integrated facility that processes renewable biological resources—such as agricultural or industrial biowaste—into a range of valuable products including bio-based polymers, chemicals, energy, and materials.

2. The concept of a waste biorefinery emphasizes the conversion of biodegradable raw materials from waste streams into useful materials through sustainable processes.

3. Biorefineries are designed to mirror the logic of petroleum refineries, but instead of fossil fuels, they use biomass and aim to maximize circularity, minimizing waste and emissions.

4. Within biorefineries, bioreactors (or fermentors) are used to grow microorganisms such as yeast, bacteria, or fungi under controlled conditions. These systems are key to producing enzymes, food additives, and other bio-based products.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Sadhukhan, J., et al. (2021). Journal of Composites and Compounds, 100111. Link

1. Biosynthesis is the process by which living organisms or cells transform simple molecules into more complex compounds. This transformation underpins essential biological functions and occurs across plants, animals, and microorganisms.

2. In industrial and material contexts, biosynthesis is often used to produce bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived materials. These “biosynthetic” materials are chemically identical or similar to their synthetic counterparts—such as polyester—but are derived from biological processes instead of fossil fuels.

3. Biosynthesis may also refer to the production of natural polymers like cellulose or silk by genetically modified microorganisms. In these cases, the resulting material is molecularly the same as one found in nature, but the production process uses microbes rather than traditional sources such as silkworms or cotton plants.

4. In broader biological terms, photosynthesis is one well-known example of biosynthesis, wherein plants convert carbon dioxide, sunlight, and water into glucose to support growth.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Biosynthetics are synthetic polymer materials comprised, in whole or in part, of bio-derived compounds. These compounds may originate from renewable biological sources (such as sugar or biomass) and/or may be produced using living microorganisms through processes like microbial fermentation.

2. Biosynthetic materials mimic conventional synthetics (e.g., nylon or polyester) at the chemical level. However, unlike fossil-based synthetics, biosynthetics use bio-based inputs, enabling a more sustainable source for the same end-product. For example, sugar derived from plants can be chemically converted into monomers that are polymerized into fibers identical to conventional synthetics—creating what is known as a “drop-in” material.

3. Key distinctions:

   • Some biosynthetics are biobased, but not necessarily biofabricated.

   • Others may include biofabricated ingredients, meaning parts of the production relied on living organisms.

   • Despite their origin, biosynthetics are often processed similarly to traditional synthetic materials—via chemical synthesis into polymers and extrusion into fibers.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Penco, L., Bassi, F., & Terzi, S. (2021). Sustainable and Bio-Based Textile Materials: An Overview. Sustainability, 14(1), 570. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010570

1. Biotic refers to anything relating to or resulting from living organisms. It encompasses biological processes, interactions, or materials that are produced by, or are part of, life forms.

2. In the context of materials and design, biotic material can also refer to raw or unprocessed substances that originate from living organisms—such as plant matter, animal products, or microbial biomass—before they undergo industrial processing or refinement.

Sources
– Oxford Languages. Definition of Biotic. Link
– Wikipedia. Bio-based Material. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bio-based_material

1. Bodily material refers to materials that are derived from the human body.

Sources
– Future Materials Bank. Lexicon: Human material / Bodily material. Link

1. Carbon is a widely distributed element that forms organic compounds by bonding with elements like hydrogen and oxygen. These carbon-based molecules are the essential building blocks of humans, animals, plants, trees, and soils.

2. Biogenic carbon refers to emissions tied to the natural carbon cycle, including those from combustion, fermentation, digestion, decomposition, and processing of biologically-based materials.

3. Renewable carbon refers to all carbon sources that avoid or substitute the use of fossil carbon from geological formations.

4. Bio-based carbon is carbon derived from biomass, while bio-based carbon content indicates the fraction of carbon in a product that originates from biomass.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– EN 16575. Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. Link

1. Cellulose is a natural, structural polysaccharide composed of glucose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. It is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth and a primary component of the cell walls in green plants, algae, and some bacteria.

2. In biomaterials, cellulose serves as a key foundational biopolymer, particularly in plant-based materials. It is often used in the development of biofibres, bioplastics, films, hydrogels, and composites due to its biodegradability, renewability, and structural performance.

3. Derivatives of cellulose, such as cellulose acetate, nanocellulose, and microfibrillated cellulose, offer enhanced functionality and are utilized in packaging, textiles, coatings, and medical applications.

Sources
– Klemm, D., Heublein, B., Fink, H.-P., & Bohn, A. (2005). Cellulose: Fascinating biopolymer and sustainable raw material. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 44(22), 3358–3393. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.200460587
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations Future Materials Bank - Cellulose

1. Chitin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide composed of N-acetylglucosamine units. It is found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans (e.g. shrimp, crabs), insects, and in the cell walls of fungi.

2. Chitosan is the deacetylated derivative of chitin, obtained through chemical or enzymatic processes. It is soluble in acidic solutions and more versatile in material applications than chitin.

3. Applications include use in biodegradable films, wound dressings, water purification, packaging, agriculture, and textile coatings. Its biodegradable, biocompatible, and antimicrobial properties make it highly valuable in sustainable design and biomedical research.

4. Chitin and chitosan are considered promising natural polymers for research in sustainable materials, often studied for their ability to replace synthetic polymers and contribute to circular material systems.

Sources
– Krajewska, B. (2004). Application of chitin and chitosan-based materials for enzyme immobilizations: a review. Enzyme and Microbial Technology, 35(2-3), 126–139. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enzmictec.2003.12.013
– Mohanty, A. K., Misra, M., & Drzal, L. T. (2002). Sustainable biocomposites from renewable resources: Opportunities and challenges in the green materials world. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 10, 19–26. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021013921916
– Future Materials Bank. Chitosan. https://www.futurematerialsbank.com/lexicon/

1. A convergence of the Circular Economy (CE) and the Bio-based Economy (BBE), focused on creating closed-loop systems using renewable biological resources. It emphasizes resource efficiency, carbon neutrality, and the recycling of biomass at every stage of a product’s life.

2. Unlike the traditional bioeconomy, which may still rely on linear (take-make-dispose) models, the circular bioeconomy integrates design for reuse, biodegradability, and regeneration into the biological resource cycle.

3. The circular bioeconomy is especially relevant in European Union sustainability policy, where it is promoted as a key strategy to combat climate change, reduce fossil dependency, and support rural and industrial resilience.

4. It supports sectors such as agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, biomaterials, and bioenergy, provided they align with circular principles such as zero waste, cascade use, and systems thinking.

Sources
– European Commission. (2018). A sustainable bioeconomy for Europe: Strengthening the connection between economy, society and the environment. https://knowledge4policy.ec.europa.eu/publication/sustainable-bioeconomy-europe_en
– Carus, M., Dammer, L. (2018). The Circular Bioeconomy – Concepts, Opportunities, and Limitations. Nova-Institute. https://bio-based.eu/ecology/circular-bioeconomy
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf

The Circular Economy (CE) is an economic model aimed at eliminating waste, retaining the value of materials, and regenerating natural systems. It contrasts with the traditional linear economy of “take-make-dispose.”

Key principles of CE include:

• Designing out waste and pollution

• Keeping products and materials in use through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling

• Regenerating natural systems by returning biodegradable nutrients to the biosphere

• Cascading use of resources to extract maximum value

• Retaining materials at their highest value for as long as possible

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation's "butterfly diagram" is a key visual representing this model, illustrating two cycles:

• A technical cycle for non-biodegradable materials

• A biological cycle for biodegradable materials

CE overlaps with the bioeconomy, especially in its focus on renewable resources and sustainable design.

Sources
– Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (n.d.). Circular economy diagram. Link
– Dey, A., et al. (2021). Journal of Cleaner Materials, 1, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111
– InnProBio. (2019). Factsheets on Bioeconomy & Circular Economy. Link

1. Compostable materials are those capable of breaking down into natural elements in a compost environment, leaving no toxicity in the soil. This includes both home and industrial composting pathways.

2. Home compostable refers to materials that break down at ambient temperatures in backyard compost heaps. While no international standard currently exists, the French standard NFT 51-800 and the Australian standard AS 5810 define performance criteria for this category.

3. Industrially compostable materials require elevated temperatures (typically 50–60°C) and controlled conditions found in specialized industrial composting facilities. To be classified as such, materials must meet standards like EN 13432, EN 14995, ASTM D6400, or ASTM D6868, and pass ecotoxicity tests to ensure no harmful by-products are released.

4. Compostability is a form of biodegradation in a specific environment. To be labeled compostable, a product must disintegrate within a defined time and produce no harmful substances. Home composting is generally slower and less controlled than industrial composting, and some materials are only suitable for the latter.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Bioeconomy Library. (2019). InnProBio Factsheets. Link

1. DIY materials are materials created through self-production practices, diverging from conventional industrial manufacturing. These materials are often developed through individual or small-scale processes, emphasizing creativity, experimentation, and local resources.

2. The concept of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) materials reflects a shift in how materials are defined—not just by their composition or function, but by how they are made. DIY materials arise from a maker's perspective, foregrounding production methods over scientific classification.

3. While scientific definitions of materials tend to focus on chemical composition and properties, DIY materials emphasize personal agency and process. As such, DIY material practices may intersect with scientific classifications, but are distinct in their origin and intent.

Sources
– Brownell, B. (2015). Do-it-yourself materials. Materials & Design, 86, 629–639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matdes.2015.07.020

1. An ecosystem refers to a single environment encompassing all living (biotic) organisms and non-living (abiotic) components within it. It includes physical elements such as soil, water, and climate, as well as the biological community that inhabits it.

2. Ecosystems represent complex networks of interaction between organisms (plants, animals, microorganisms) and their surroundings, highlighting interdependence and balance in natural systems.

3. The concept of an ecosystem underscores the idea that no organism exists in isolation — all elements in an environment influence and are influenced by one another, forming a dynamic and interconnected whole.

Sources
– Healing Materialities & Design. (n.d.). Glossary: Ecosystem. https://healing-materialities.design/home/
– Biology Dictionary. (n.d.). Ecosystem Definition. Retrieved from https://biologydictionary.net

1. The green economy is an overarching economic framework that integrates concepts from the circular economy (CE), bioeconomy (BE/BBE), and low-carbon economy, aiming for a more sustainable and equitable global system.

2. A green economy seeks to enhance human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and resource scarcities.

3. In industrial contexts — such as the polymer and plastics industries — the green economy promotes a shift away from fossil-based products toward biodegradable polymers made from renewable resources, emphasizing sustainability and low-carbon transitions.

Sources
– Roy, I., & Tiwari, A. (2021). Recent advances in biodegradable polymers and composites for sustainable applications. Journal of Composites Science, 5(6), 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111

1. Growing Design is a material design practice in which designers grow materials from living organisms, such as fungi, algae, or bacteria, to achieve specific material functions, aesthetics, and sustainable outcomes in product design.

2. It is rooted in a cross-disciplinary approach that merges biology and design, often referred to as “cross-fertilizing” the two fields to create new opportunities for material innovation.

3. This emerging practice includes co-creating with life forms as part of the material fabrication process, reflecting both ecological awareness and creative experimentation.

Sources
– Karana, E., Blauwhoff, D., Hultink, E. J., & Camere, S. (2018). When the material grows: Designing (with) mycelium-based materials. Journal of Cleaner Production, 186, 570–582. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.03.081
– Healing Materialities & Design. Growing Design. https://healing-materialities.design/home/

1. Lignin is a complex, aromatic biopolymer found in the cell walls of vascular plants, where it acts as a binding agent that gives rigidity and structural integrity to plant tissues.

2. It is the second most abundant natural polymer on Earth (after cellulose) and is primarily composed of phenolic compounds.

3. In biodesign and material science, lignin is often removed during the processing of plant fibres (e.g. in paper pulping) but is increasingly being repurposed as a renewable input for bioplastics, bioadhesives, carbon fibres, and natural dyes.

4. Its antioxidant, UV-blocking, and hydrophobic properties make lignin an attractive component in sustainable materials and coatings.

Sources
– Laurichesse, S., & Avérous, L. (2014). Chemical modification of lignins: Towards biobased polymers. Progress in Polymer Science, 39(7), 1266–1290. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2013.11.004
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Future Materials Bank. Lignin. https://www.futurematerialsbank.com/lexicon/

1. A Low Carbon Economy (LCE) refers to an economic system aimed at significantly reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions through strategies such as renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency, and sustainable industrial practices.

2. It emphasizes climate change mitigation by minimizing the dependence on fossil fuels and supporting innovations that lower greenhouse gas outputs across sectors.

Sources
– Jariwala, H., & Mandot, B. (2021). Green polymer chemistry: Circular economy and bio-based polymerization. Journal of Composites, 100111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100111

1. Living materials are materials that contain or are composed of living organisms—such as fungi, algae, bacteria, or cells—that may continue to grow, regenerate, self-heal, or respond to environmental stimuli after fabrication.

2. These materials often interact with their surroundings, for example by metabolizing CO₂, changing colour, or repairing themselves. Their use represents a shift from inert to dynamic design systems.

3. In biodesign, living materials are explored both functionally (e.g. growing insulation or self-healing textiles) and speculatively (e.g. buildings that adapt like living organisms).

4. They are closely linked to concepts such as bioreceptive design, biofabrication, growing design, and regenerative systems, and often raise new questions around care, maintenance, and cohabitation with biological entities.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Karana, E., Barati, B., Rognoli, V., & Zeeuw van der Laan, A. (2015). Material Driven Design (MDD) Method.
– Myers, W. (2012). Bio Design: Nature + Science + Creativity.

1. Marine degradable refers to materials designed to break down in marine environments—typically tested under conditions mimicking seawater exposure. According to the former TUV Austria certification (ASTM D7081—now withdrawn and succeeded by ASTM D6691), these materials must degrade by at least 90% within six months.

2. The category is still emerging, and the lack of consistent and widely accepted standards for marine degradability remains a significant challenge. The long-term ecological impacts and real-world trade-offs are not yet fully understood.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Material Ecology is an emerging field in design that explores the relationship between products, buildings, systems, and the environment. It emphasizes how materials interact with their ecological contexts throughout their lifecycle. (Oxman, 2010)

2. It is further defined as the study and design of products and processes that integrate environmentally aware computational form-generation and digital fabrication, aiming for more sustainable and biologically integrated design outcomes. (Oxman, 2013)

Sources
– Healing Materialities. (n.d.). Link

1. Matrix refers to the continuous phase or medium in a composite material that surrounds, supports, and binds together embedded fibres, particles, or other structures.

2. In biofabrication, a matrix can be a biopolymeric substance or hydrogel that hosts living cells or microorganisms, allowing for structural integrity and biological activity during material formation.

3. The matrix plays a crucial role in transferring stress, distributing load, and protecting the reinforcement phase(e.g. biofibres) in both natural and engineered composites.

4. Depending on the context, matrices may be derived from synthetic polymers, natural polymers (e.g. gelatin, alginate), or biobased resins, and can be tailored for biodegradability, flexibility, or bioactivity.

Sources
– Gatenholm, P., & Klemm, D. (2010). Bacterial nanocellulose as a renewable material for biomedical applications. MRS Bulletin, 35(3), 208–213. https://doi.org/10.1557/mrs2010.653
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– EN 16575:2014. Bio-based Products – Vocabulary. https://www.en-standard.eu/bs-en-16575-2014-bio-based-products-vocabulary/

1. In biology, metabolism refers to the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that convert nutrients into energy and building blocks for growth, reproduction, and maintenance.

2. In the context of materials and design, metabolism is also used metaphorically to describe the flow of energy and matter within systems — for example, urban metabolism, which maps how resources are consumed, transformed, and expelled in cities.

3. In circular and regenerative design, material metabolism refers to the cycling of materials through various phases (use, reuse, degradation, regeneration), promoting closed-loop systems akin to natural metabolic processes.

4. Biodesign often draws parallels between natural metabolic cycles and material lifecycles, rethinking how materials are "fed," "processed," and "decomposed" within human-made environments.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Kennedy, C., Cuddihy, J., & Engel-Yan, J. (2007). The Changing Metabolism of Cities. Journal of Industrial Ecology, 11(2), 43–59. https://doi.org/10.1162/jiec.2007.1107
– Braungart, M., & McDonough, W. (2002). Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things.

1. A microorganism (or microbe) is a microscopic organism—either single-celled or multicellular—that is often invisible to the naked eye. 

2. In the context of biodesign and materials innovation, the microbes most commonly utilized for producing consumer textiles include yeast, bacteria, fungi, and algae. These organisms are harnessed for their capacity to biosynthesize, assemble, or structure materials in sustainable ways.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Molecular weight is defined as the sum of the atomic masses of all atoms in a molecule, measured in atomic mass units (amu) or daltons (Da). It represents the mass of a single molecule’s constituent atoms combined.

Sources
– Singh, P., & Sharma, V. P. (2009). Integrated approach for biodegradation of plastics. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 10(9), 3722–3742. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms10093722

1. Mycelium is the root-like network of fungal threads (hyphae) that forms the vegetative part of fungi.

2. In biodesign and material innovation, mycelium is used as a living, self-assembling material capable of growing into structural forms by feeding on organic waste.

3. When cultivated under controlled conditions, mycelium can be shaped and dried to create biodegradable products such as packaging, textiles, acoustic panels, furniture, bricks, and leather alternatives.

4. Mycelium-based materials are often lightweight, compostable, and have excellent insulation or structural properties, making them a promising sustainable alternative to plastic, foam, and even concrete.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Dezeen. (2021). Biomaterials Review. https://www.dezeen.com/2021/12/28/biomaterials-review-2021/
– Future Materials Bank. (n.d.). Lexicon Entry: Mycelium. https://www.futurematerialsbank.com/

1. Natural refers to anything existing in or caused by nature and not made or caused by humankind.

2. In the fashion and textile industry, natural fibers, fabrics, and dyes are those obtained directly from animals or plants—such as wool, leather, fur, cotton, hemp, indigo, and saffron.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Organic (chemical compound): A large class of compounds in which carbon atoms are covalently bonded to other elements, typically hydrogen, oxygen, or nitrogen. Not all carbon-containing compounds are organic—carbides, carbonates, and cyanides are notable exceptions.

2. Organic (farming): Refers to agricultural practices that avoid synthetic chemicals, using plant- or animal-based inputs instead of chemically formulated fertilizers, growth stimulants, antibiotics, or pesticides.

3. Organic (general use): Relating to or derived from living matter.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– Oxford Languages. (n.d.). Definition of Organic. Link

1. Petrochemicals are chemical compounds derived from petroleum or natural gas, often used as feedstocks in the production of plastic materials, synthetic fibers, fertilizers, and various industrial chemicals.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Plastic refers to a broad group of synthetic or semi-synthetic polymeric materials that can be molded into desired shapes. Plastics are composed of organic molecules and may be produced from renewable natural resources(e.g., plant or animal matter) or non-renewable sources such as petroleum, coal, or natural gas.

2. The term “plastic” originates from the material’s malleability—its ability to be melted, shaped, and solidified—making it suitable for a vast array of daily applications.

3. Plastics often include various additives (organic or mineral) in their formulation to impart specific or enhanced properties.

4. In scientific terminology, plastics are commonly referred to as polymeric materials.

5. Plastics possess a high molecular weight and can be degraded (though often slowly) by physical, chemical, or biological processes, depending on their structure.

Sources
– Chem4us. (n.d.). Plastics and Bioplastics: A 200-Year History of Research and Development. Link
– Auta, H. S., Emenike, C. U., & Fauziah, S. H. (2017). Distribution and importance of microplastics in the marine environment: A review of the sources, fate, effects, and potential solutions. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 10(9). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms10093722

1. Proteins are biological polymers made from chains of amino acids, serving as vital building blocks within living systems.

2. Examples of natural protein biopolymers include silk (produced by spiders and silkworms) and collagen (a structural protein found in animal connective tissue).

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Regenerative Design is a system of technologies and strategies grounded in a deep understanding of ecosystem dynamics. It aims to create designs that regenerate socio-ecological systems, restoring their vitality, viability, and capacity for evolution rather than depleting their life-supporting resources. (Mang & Reed, 2017)

Source
– Mang, P., & Reed, B. (2017). Regenerative Development and Design: A Framework for Evolving Sustainability. Cited in Healing Materialities & Design. Link

1. Renewable materials are those composed of biomass—living or recently living organic matter—that can be continually replenished through natural, regenerative processes.

Sources
– EN 16575‑2014. Bio‑based Products – Vocabulary. Link

1. Scaffold refers to a supportive three-dimensional structure that serves as a framework for cell attachment, growth, and tissue formation.

2. In biofabrication and tissue engineering, scaffolds enable living cells to organize into functional material systems, guiding shape, strength, and biological behavior.

3. Scaffolds are commonly made from biocompatible and biodegradable materials, including natural polymers like collagen, chitosan, or alginate, and sometimes synthetic biopolymers.

4. The design of a scaffold — including porosity, mechanical properties, and surface chemistry — is crucial for successful integration of biological components into the final biomaterial.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Mironov et al. (2009). Biofabrication: A New Frontier in Regenerative Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.03.081
– Healing Materialities. (n.d.). Scaffold Definition. https://healing-materialities.design/home/

1. Speculative Design is a critical design approach that explores hypothetical futures, often by questioning present assumptions, systems, or technologies.

2. It is used to provoke thought, discussion, or debate, rather than to create immediately functional or market-ready products.

3. In biodesign, speculative design helps envision possible, probable, or preferable futures involving biology — including synthetic biology, living materials, or ecological interventions.

4. Notably advanced by studios like Dunne & Raby, speculative design intersects with bioethics, politics, sustainability, and emerging technologies.

Sources
– Dunne, A., & Raby, F. (2013). Speculative Everything: Design, Fiction, and Social Dreaming. MIT Press.
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– Healing Materialities. (n.d.). Speculative Design. https://healing-materialities.design/home/

1. Synthesis—specifically chemical synthesis—is the process of constructing complex chemical compounds from simpler ones. This method not only allows the creation of naturally occurring compounds but also enables chemists to design entirely new molecules for research or application purposes.

2. In industrial contexts, chemical synthesis is essential for producing a wide array of materials at scale, from plastics to pharmaceuticals, by systematically building complex structures in controlled environments.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Synthetic biology (or "synbio") is an emerging interdisciplinary field combining principles of biology, engineering, genetics, chemistry, and computer science. It seeks to design and engineer biologically based components—from molecules and genetic circuits to entire cells or systems—with new or enhanced capabilities.

2. The practice involves crafting long stretches of synthetic DNA, which may contain genes from other organisms or entirely novel sequences, and inserting them into living organisms to program new functions or behaviors. Link Link

3. Synthetic biology applies an engineering mindset to biological systems, emphasizing standardization, modularity, and automation—aiming to make biology easier to design, build, and predict. Link

4. Real-world applications span medicine, sustainable manufacturing, agriculture, and environmental remediation, offering innovations such as bio-based materials, novel therapeutics, and engineered organisms with enhanced environmental functions. Link

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link
– National Human Genome Research Institute. Synthetic Biology: Redirecting Organisms for Value. Link
– EBRC. What is Synthetic Biology? Link
– U.S. Government Accountability Office. Synthetic Biology Applications and Risks. Link
– Axios. The age of engineering life begins. Link

1. Synthetic describes compounds that are formed through human-driven chemical processes rather than occurring naturally in the environment.

2. These materials are typically engineered in laboratories or industrial settings, using controlled reactions and manufacturing techniques rather than biological or ecological systems.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. Link

1. Wet Lab refers to a laboratory where experiments involving chemicals, biological matter, or liquids are conducted using equipment like pipettes, incubators, and microscopes.

2. In the context of biodesign, wet labs enable the manipulation of living organisms, DNA, and bio-based materials — facilitating research in synthetic biology, biofabrication, fermentation, and biomaterials.

3. A Bio Lab is often a wet lab specialized in biological experimentation, where work with microorganisms, cells, fungi, algae, or tissues takes place.

4. Such labs are central to the workflows of biodesigners, bioengineers, and material scientists, and are increasingly integrated into design schools and studios experimenting with living materials.

Sources
– Fashion for Good. (2020). Understanding Bio Material Innovations. https://reports.fashionforgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Understanding-Bio-Material-Innovations-Report.pdf
– MIT Media Lab. (n.d.). Biological Design Center. https://www.media.mit.edu/
– Cambridge Dictionary. (2024). Wet Lab. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/