By imitating the mechanical structure and principles of organisms, we can create new mechanical systems and structures.

Examples:

• Termite mounds include flues which vent through the top and sides, and the mound itself is designed to catch the breeze. As the wind blows, hot air from the main chambers below ground is drawn out of the structure, helped by termites opening or blocking tunnels to control air flow. East Gate center (shopping center and office block) at central Harare, Zimbabwe is modeled on local termite mounds and is ventilated and cooled entirely by natural means.
• Portland based architecture firm used biomimicry concepts in some of their designs to design building ventilation, lighting, and insulation.
• Swiss Re building in London is built similar to the structure of sea sponge where shafts in the gaps of each floor naturally ventilate the building.
• North Carolina based 'Columbia Forest Product companies' product Pure Bond Soy based adhesive is an off-sited example. This adhesive was developed taking example from the humble mussel. (The proteins secreted by the mussel helps it to cling to the rock, against the force of pounding surf).