JSCE Magazine Summary & Index
Latest Magazine
vol.111 No.5 May 2026
The world of Biomimetics
─ Technology inheritance from the nature ─
The May issue of JSCE Magazine, "Civil Engineering” features “Biomimetics”—the practice of
mimicking the structures, functions, or entire ecosystem systems of living organisms, drawing
inspiration from them to develop new technologies and innovations.
Amid declining interest in civil engineering and engineering fi elds among younger generations,
this feature reveals the beauty and rationality inherent in the efficient structures born through
biological evolution, while offering a renewed understanding of mechanics. In the lead interview,
Mr. Shimomura, one of Japan's leading biomimetics experts, urges engineers to ask not only
“Can we do it?” but also “Should we do it?” as he pursues sustainable growth and responsibility
for future generations.
This article traces biomimetics expansion in Japan and globally:
(First Generation) Morphological Mimicry (e.g., structural color in Morpho butterflies,
anti-reflective surfaces inspired by moth eyes) – achieved through nano/microfabrication
technologies spanning materials, optics, and textiles;
(Second Generation) Dynamic Function Mimicry: water repellency, anti-soiling, self-healing
surfaces etc.;
(Third Generation) Ecomimetics: methods applying ecosystem networks, interactions,
and circular processes to engineering.
Through this special feature, we hope to provide current and future civil engineers with an
opportunity to consider: “What can we do now to achieve a circular society?”
