Melwear
The future of UV protection
Melwear harnesses the power of microbes to shield our bodies from harmful UV radiation. In a future where the natural process of evolution is unable to adapt our ecosystems to the evolving environmental conditions, Melwear opens a new perspective on to help our bodies become more resilient to climate change while also protecting the health of our ecosystems. The concept involves a speculative membrane with bacterial melanin, which has UV absorbance and antioxidant properties. A second skin that reacts to the environment, providing long-lasting and efficient protection for our bodies.
Company/Institution
University of the Arts London - Central Saint Martins
The MA Biodesign at Central Saint Martins specifically understands biodesign as a means of incorporating the inherent life-conducive principles of biological living systems into design processes – to transition into a more holistic, sustainable future.
The course introduces designers from multidisciplinary design backgrounds to whole system thinking, biomimicry principles, biological systems, bio-computational design, digital and bio-fabrication techniques. These principles are applied to design new sustainable materials, products, services, systems, and architectural propositions.
Country
United Kingdom
Designer(s)
Maca Barrera
Maca is a multidisciplinary designer with a focus on biodesign, research, and innovation. She combines her passion for the ocean, material science, and textiles to address sustainable challenges related to the marine ecosystem. Her latest work involves harnessing the power of microbes and wearable technology, introducing innovative solutions that shield our skin from harmful UV radiation while protecting the health of our ecosystems.