Biophilic Design
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Provided by: 1y4e|Published on: May 8, 2026
Articles/WebsitesScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This article introduces the concept of biophilic design — an approach to architecture and urban planning that incorporates natural elements into the built environment.
- The resource includes links for students to explore to understand more about biophilic design and a question to check their comprehension.
Subjects: Visual and Performing Arts
Authors: Alidia Vane
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Classroom Implementation:
- Pair this resource with several examples of biophilic design and have students sketch their own biophilic design.
Climate Change Connections:
- Discuss the benefits of incorporating elements of nature in design for those with climate anxiety.
- Ask students to consider how biophilic design can be used to spread messages about climate change and inspire climate action.
- Have students sketch biophilic building designs that double as ways to reduce emissions in buildings.
Extensions:
- Invite students to do a biophilic audit of their own school or classroom: What natural elements are present? What is missing? How might adding natural elements improve the space?
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- Health:
- Connect to discussions about stress and well-being.
This webpage introduces biophilic design and links to two additional websites with more information. One of these websites provides more detail on what biophilic design is, its purpose and benefits, and includes examples. The second website includes additional resources. Biophilic design encourages people to interact with nature and highlights the benefits of doing so. This concept can help people better connect with and understand the environment around them. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
One Year for Earth (1y4e)
One Year for Earth (1y4e) offers a variety of ideas, opportunities, and actionable steps to advocate for sustainable solutions and build resilient communities. Our mission is to help you implement smart, effective planning—starting today. The 1y4e Journey is a reliable way to stay on track with your sustainability efforts. By signing up, you’ll engage once a week over the course of a calendar year. Each week, you'll receive an email with a quiz question, a list of seasonal foods, and helpful tips on sustainable practices. As you participate, you’ll earn points that contribute to tree planting on your behalf in certified reforestation efforts and a Certificate of Completion.
Our website and program also guide you in creating a Sustainable Action Plan with goals to help you stay focused throughout the year—all at no cost to you, your organization, or your employer. Additionally, we provide excellent resources for organizations to support and community actions you can join or initiate! Visit our website or reach out to us directly for more information or to assist sharing the 1y4e program with your family, team, or community.
Our website and program also guide you in creating a Sustainable Action Plan with goals to help you stay focused throughout the year—all at no cost to you, your organization, or your employer. Additionally, we provide excellent resources for organizations to support and community actions you can join or initiate! Visit our website or reach out to us directly for more information or to assist sharing the 1y4e program with your family, team, or community.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
