Wind Turbine Biomimicry Lesson at Begawan Learning Centre

In our current world, we are facing many environmental challenges. One of the major issues is the use of non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and environmental degradation. It is crucial that we shift towards clean energy sources to promote a sustainable future for our planet. Biomimicry offers a promising solution to this challenge.

Learning about Wind Turbines with a Treasure Hunt Game

Recently, the Begawan Learning Centre team taught a group of young Eco Warriors, aged 8-12, about the potential of biomimicry in addressing energy challenges. The lesson began with a brief introduction to biomimicry in energy, followed by a fun and engaging treasure hunt game. The facilitator distributed fact cards about wind turbines around the Begawan Learning Center, which contained interesting information about wind turbines.

The cards explained that wind turbines are typically installed in areas with high wind speeds, how wind turbines can capture wind and convert it into electricity, and that they are an excellent alternative to fossil fuels. The cards also described the structure of a wind turbine, which generally consists of a rotor, blades, nacelle, and a tower. To participate in the game, students were asked to gather information and discuss with their team, and then guess what object the facts referred to.

Mimicking Whale Fins to Improve Wind Turbines

After the treasure hunt game, the students watched a video about the process of building wind turbines in real life. They learned how wind turbines mimic the shape and movement of the fins of humpback whales to overcome the drag and turbulence caused by wind, making them more efficient and less noisy. By mimicking the natural system of whale fins, wind turbines can generate energy with minimal environmental impact.

Building Miniature Wind Turbine Models

The last and most exciting activity was the building of miniature working models of wind turbines. The students worked in small groups, prepared the materials and built their own working models using a rotor, cardboard, a small led lamp and wire. They were enthusiastic and persistent in their efforts, not giving up until their wind turbines were successfully generating energy. If the turbines did not work at first, they modified and revised them until they were successful.

Educating Young Eco Warriors on the Importance of Sustainable Energy

Overall, this lesson was meaningful because it taught young Eco Warriors about the importance of sustainable energy and how biomimicry can be applied to the development of renewable energy sources. While they may not be able to implement biomimicry solutions on a large scale yet, they are now aware of the concept and its potential to create a better future for the planet. The lesson provided them with a foundation for further learning and exploration in the field of sustainable energy.

Biomimicry offers a promising solution to the challenges we face in the energy sector. By looking to nature for inspiration, we can develop sustainable and innovative solutions to our energy challenges. (Desy)