As the Eden Project approaches its 25th anniversary, it publishes a landmark Impact Report which reveals the charitable trust has delivered £6.8bn in total economic impact to the south west.

Since opening in 2001, the Eden Project has also contributed £5.7bn net additional economic impact to Cornwall.

The report, released on Cornwall’s national day, St Piran’s Day, also highlights its 25 million visitors, with 80% outside of Cornwall, generating £8.4bn total visitor spend.

Co-founded by Tim Smit and architect Jonathon Ball, the Eden Project began as an “educational charity with a mission that extends far beyond horticulture: to reconnect people with nature through education, regeneration and storytelling.”

Andy Jasper, chief executive of the charitable trust comments on its achievements:

“The Eden Project unearths the wonder of the natural world and enriches life through positive action for the planet. This Impact Report is proof of the difference it makes and demonstrates that investing in nature, culture and education is not a luxury – it is a blueprint for economic growth.”

Now heading into Spring, the Eden Project prepares with a 200-acre estate blooming with bulbs, magnolias, cherry blossom and hyacinths.

As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, Eden is joining National Lottery Open Week with free entry offered between 7 and 15 March for anyone with a valid National Lottery ticket or stratchcard.