Developing Bio-Inspired Sustainability Assessment Tool: The Role of Energy Efficiency

The escalating demand for sustainable development in the built environment necessitates the integration of innovative, system-based assessment tools. This study investigates the role of energy efficiency (EE) within a nature-inspired sustainability assessment framework, drawing from biomimicry principles to evaluate green building practices in South Africa. Grounded in the ethos of nature’s efficiency, such as closed-loop energy systems, passive energy use, efficiency through form and function, and decentralised and localised energy generation, this study identifies and prioritises key EE criteria, including efficient energy management, renewable energy optimisation, passive heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and energy-saving technologies. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), this research engaged 38 highly experienced, practising, and registered construction professionals to perform pairwise comparisons of EE criteria. Results revealed that efficient energy management (29.8%) emerged as the most significant factor, followed closely by energy-saving equipment (26.4%), with strong expert consensus (consistency ratio = 0.03). The findings reflect a convergence of ecological wisdom and industry expertise, suggesting that nature’s design strategies offer a compelling roadmap for achieving sustainable energy performance in buildings. This study reinforces the applicability of biomimicry in shaping context-specific sustainability metrics and informs the development of adaptive, ecologically aligned certification frameworks. This study recommends the integration of these EE criteria into building rating systems, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and scaling nature-based frameworks to inform global sustainability practice. By bridging theory and application, this study advances a regenerative approach to construction that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and long-term environmental resilience.