The Science Gallery's Disposables installations ran in 2019 - but if you missed out, no worries. We're here to take you back in time and guide you through it! Learn how Science and Art are tackling issues around sustainability in this bio-inspirational episode of Event FOMO.

BioInspiration, a University Hallmark Research Initiative, was showcased in a special floor talk by Associate Professor Devi Stuart-Fox, Co-Chair of the initiative. You will hear her insights as well as those of Ryan Jefferies, Tilly Boleyn, alumnus Carolyn Sparke, and Faculty of Science Dean Alex Owczarek.

BioInspiration

Bioinspired research is rooted in observations of nature as a source of inspiration. This can be applied to any area of innovation, including the development of new materials, devices, technology and structures, and processes. The BioInspiration Hallmark Research Initiative has identified three key early research themes that leverage existing research strengths:

• Bioinspired Nano-optics and Materials
• Bioinspired Design in Architecture
• Bioinspired Chemical Sensors

Disposables

• PLASTIVORE will demonstrate how mealworms have the capability to digest harmful plastics like polystyrene and turn it into compostable waste. Watch and hear the mealworms as they breakdown the plastic live!
• URINOTRON demonstrates how even our 'waste' (urine) can be used as a power source. Charge your mobile phones from the power generated from the urine.
• P@TCH is a textile-based media project, inviting workshop participants to create a hand-embroidered patch, which also incorporate CCS811 Air Quality Sensors that detects the user's personal air-pollution levels.

This episode was recorded on August 1st, 2019.

Executive producer and host: Dr Andi Horvath

Audio engineer and editor: Arch Cuthbertson

Production Assistant: Silvi Vann-Wall

Find out more: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/