Janine Benyus describes “biomimicry” as a new science that studies nature’s best ideas and then imitates these designs and processes to solve human problems; for example, studying a leaf to invent a better solar cell.

“I think of it as innovation inspired by nature,” she says. Benyus, a life science writer and author of six books, will deliver the opening address at the American Society of Interior Design’s annual conference March 17-20 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego. Benyus’ topic will be “How Would Nature Design Interiors? Biomimicry and the Art of Well-Adapted Design,” which she will deliver March 18 at 9 a.m.

“The core idea is that nature, imaginative by necessity, has already solved many of the problems we are grappling with,” says Benyus. “Animals, plants and microbes are the consummate engineers. They have found what works, what is appropriate, and most important, what lasts here on earth. This is the real news of biomimicry: After 3.8 billion years of research and development, failures are fossils, and what surrounds us is the secret to survival.”

“Interiors 05: The ASID Conference on Design” also will present Matt Harvey, creative director of Target Homes, speaking on products the company has introduced and its corporate philosophy. His topic: “On Target — Design for All.” It will be delivered at 9 a.m.March 19. The conference is designed for interior designers, architects, building managers, students, educators and industry representatives. The cost is $480 for ASID members and $550 for nonmembers. For more information, visit asid.org.