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Engineers and scientists are using plants and animals such as whales, kelp, and snappers to inspire more energy efficient technology.

“Biomimicry,” the idea of using designs inspired by nature for the benefit of humanity, is motivating engineers to improve the cleanliness and efficiency of energy use through the study of nature.

After studying the movement of bull kelp, an Australian company is now developing an alternative energy source that produces energy from the movement of floats bobbing up and down in the waves.

Meanwhile, engineers in California have examined the pattern that schools of snapper form to inspire their turbine formations in order to minimize wake interference. This has allowed them to place the turbines closer together, minimizing the space they take up and producing ten times as much energy.

Click here to read more about how whales, termites, kelp, and schools of snapper are encouraging energy-efficient technology.