Biosphere 2

So many of the positive aspects of this landmark's history had been clouded by its legacy as a 'closed system'. But urgent new scientific approaches along with global climate change, demanded both a literal and symbolic opening up of the Biosphere 2 facility. In 2006, the University of Arizona College of Science was asked to explore how Biosphere 2 might be reenergized as a source of scientific discovery leveraged by the elite status of the UA’s world-class research programs. The vision put forth by the university was one of "openness" and this new approach helped guide Godat Design in the development of the new Biosphere 2 brand, including the creation of a globe icon that was based on physical attributes of the planet, presented as a visual metaphor for openness, balance, and dynamic change.

Biosphere 2 is an icon for our planet's quest to understand sustainable functioning of healthy ecosystems. It continues to serve as one of Arizona's top tourism destinations and was recently designated by Life magazine as one of the eight wonders of the man-made world. To support tourism goals and enhance educational outreach efforts taking place at the Biosphere 2, Godat Design works closely with Biosphere 2's education, marketing and management teams to promote the facility to both the public as well as targeted academic and research organizations. Signage and on-site graphics have begun to reshape the public understanding of the vital work underway at Biosphere 2.

The new UA Science program at the Biosphere 2 is unique in that it focuses on integrating the research in the Biosphere facility with studies in the actual Arizona landscape. To help define the role that the College of Science might play, Godat Design was asked to contribute to the planning of a new organizational structure to guide the activities of research, education and outreach. Godat Design proposed a tripartite structure and interrelated visual identities for Biosphere 2, B2 Institute, and B2 Earthscience that mirrored Biosphere 2's new broader mission. Identified by its new tagline, "Where Science Lives," Godat Design is proud to have played a major role in the reinvention and rebranding of Biosphere 2.