Eden Project Celebrates 25 Years with Vision for Future Nature Connection and Sustainability
The Eden Project in Cornwall, which opened in 2001, is marking its 25th anniversary in 2026. Founder Tim Smit reflects that the world is in a better place now than when Eden was established, with people becoming more attuned to the natural world. He sees the mission of the Eden Project as illustrating humanity's place within nature, emphasizing that without plants there is no life on Earth and fostering a sense of belonging to the natural environment.
Smit acknowledges ongoing climate concerns, noting changes such as wetter winters and drier summers, and warns of potential environmental tipping points. He criticizes the privatization of water as a misguided approach. However, he expresses hope in advances like mycelium and plant-based materials for building and environmental cleanup.
The Eden Project has welcomed around 25 million visitors and had an economic impact of £2.2 billion in 2019, with updated totals to be announced. Future expansion plans include new Eden sites in Morecambe, Lancashire; Dundee; and an Oriental Eden in Qingdao, China.
On the political front, Tim Smit suggests that extreme political views will fade as people recognize positive developments ahead, describing support for Reform UK as akin to a "stag-night regret." He also advocates for UK energy independence, arguing that it would facilitate growth and food security for the island nation.
