Cutting-Edge Soil Science Labs Launched at the Eden Project

In a ground-breaking moment Cornwall College University Centre have officially opened the “Centre for Excellence in Research and Knowledge Transfer,” state-of-the-art laboratories at the Eden Project, set to transform sustainable agriculture, horticulture and soil science in Cornwall.

In a display of commitment to ecology and transformative research, the launch event at the Eden Project’s new geothermally heated Growing Point nursery welcomed an excited group of attendees who came to celebrate this landmark addition to Cornwall’s research landscape.

Andy Jasper, CEO of the Eden Project, opened the facilities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, emphasising the significance of this partnership in fostering environmental stewardship and community-focused education.

He said: “I am incredibly proud of our partnership the Eden Project has with Cornwall College, with the brilliant students, now the cutting-edge laboratories (heated by our own geothermal plant) which will take things to the next level. This campus now equips students with the tools, knowledge, and hands-on experience to lead in soil science, biodiversity restoration, and regenerative horticultural practices. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for our communities and our planet and I feel there has never been a better time or place to study the science, art and practice of horticulture. “

During the morning, Rob Bosworth, Principal and CEO of The Cornwall College Group, Dr Laura Branscombe, Laboratory Manager at the Centre of Excellence and Dan Ryan, Head of Higher Education at the Eden Project, were joined by dignitaries and members of staff to welcome guests to the Centre.

For Dr Jennie Jordan, Head of Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project and Head of Higher Education across the Cornwall College Group, this official launch marks a significant step for training the next generation of soil experts, plant scientists and ecologists in the region.

“We are very excited to showcase our state-of-the-art Centre to support the local agriculture, growers and farming sectors,” Jennie explained. “Our bespoke laboratories are designed to empower growers, farmers, horticulturalists and ecologists with cutting-edge research and practical knowledge to protect our soils, increase biodiversity and secure a resilient future for Cornwall’s land and communities.

“Thanks to these facilities at the Eden Project’s Growing Point nursery, we are able to take our research capabilities to the next level, enhancing our specialist degrees in soil science, plant science, ecology, and garden and landscape design, and enabling us to continue producing high-calibre graduates who are the changemakers of the future in globally significant green skills,” she continued.

Following the launch, a series of Knowledge Transfer sessions led by experts Jake Corin, Michael Cutler, Connor Kendrew and Steph Knights introduced attendees to the Centre’s pioneering research in sustainable soil science, resource conservation and agricultural technology.

The event concluded with a networking lunch, offering an opportunity for the press and attendees to engage directly with the university faculty and Eden Project researchers on the Centre’s commitment to advancing ecological knowledge and sustainable practices in Cornwall.

The Centre for Excellence was made possible by a £574,820 investment from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Cllr Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for economy, said: “I am delighted that our Good Growth Programme has been able to fund this new facility, aiding local growers and farmers in boosting their productivity. The agri-food industry is crucial to Cornwall’s economy and natural environment, and fostering innovation in this sector will pave the way for a more prosperous future.”

For more on the university level programmes available at the Eden Project through The Cornwall College Group, please visit the website.