The Eden project is a shining example for us all says social entrepreneur
The Eden Project, which is
celebrating its tenth year, is a lesson in social entrepreneurship that we
should all learn from says business author Robert Ashton.
"The Eden Project is a shining
example to all of us of what can be achieved. All revenues and profits are
wholly owned by the Eden Trust which supports environmental projects and
education. But it has also generated over £800million for the Cornish economy
and created 100's of jobs," said Mr Ashton, who is the author of the best
selling business guide 'How to be a Social Entrepreneur'.
The Eden Project has been visited by 13 million people from all over the globe
and has become an environmental flagship. The project aims to educate visitors
how to live in a sustainable and ecologically sensitive way while promoting the
study and appreciation of the environment, the advantages of renewable energy,
biodegradable waste and agriculture conservation.
"Eden provides local employment
and has succeeded in actually extending the holiday season in Cornwall with its
all weather entertainment," said Mr Ashton.
"Services and supplies are
scrupulously sourced from local companies and its contribution to the local
economy is vast."
Martin
Williams, Eden's marketing director, said: "Since 2001 we've
welcomed nearly 13 million visitors from around the world to Eden
and this year we're looking back at all that we've achieved over the
last 10 years as well as looking forward to all the exciting things we
have planned for the future."