Biomimicry as a Framework for Net-Zero Energy Architecture in Tropical Climates: Advancing Sustainable Practices in Design and Performance

The built environment in tropical developing regions faces critical challenges stemming from climatechange, rapid urbanization, and rising energy demands. Conventional architectural approaches in hothumidclimates, such as those found in West Africa Nigeria, often fail to deliver thermal comfort andenergy efficiency, leading to increased dependence on carbon-intensive cooling systems. This paperexplores biomimicry, the emulation of nature’s adaptive strategies, as a viable design framework forachieving net-zero energy architecture (NZEA) in tropical climates. A mixed-methods approach wasemployed, beginning with a literature review of biomimetic applications in architecture, followed byan analysis of biological models such as termite mounds, cactus skins, and baobab trees. These wereabstracted into architectural strategies and tested using performance simulation tools. Results revealthat biomimetic designs significantly reduce cooling loads, improve ventilation, and enhance thermalcomfort, outperforming conventional building models by 30–50% in energy efficiency. The studyaddresses a gap in existing literature by focusing on climate-responsive, performance-based designstrategies adapted specifically for tropical West Africa. It also highlights the relevance of low-tech,ecologically grounded solutions that align with local socio-economic realities. The findings offerpractical insights for sustainable architectural practices, education, and policy in tropical regions andpropose a replicable framework for applying biomimicry in similar environmental contexts.