Abstract
The built environment in tropical developing regions faces critical challenges stemming from climate change, rapid urbanization, and rising energy demands. Conventional architectural approaches in hothumid climates, such as those found in West Africa Nigeria, often fail to deliver thermal comfort and energy efficiency, leading to increased dependence on carbon-intensive cooling systems. This paper explores biomimicry, the emulation of nature’s adaptive strategies, as a viable design framework for achieving net-zero energy architecture (NZEA) in tropical climates. A mixed-methods approach was employed, beginning with a literature review of biomimetic applications in architecture, followed by an analysis of biological models such as termite mounds, cactus skins, and baobab trees. These were abstracted into architectural strategies and tested using performance simulation tools. Results reveal that biomimetic designs significantly reduce cooling loads, improve ventilation, and enhance thermal comfort, outperforming conventional building models by 30–50% in energy efficiency. The study addresses a gap in existing literature by focusing on climate-responsive, performance-based design strategies 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 offer practical insights for sustainable architectural practices, education, and policy in tropical regions and propose a replicable framework for applying biomimicry in similar environmental contexts.