Imerys and Cornwall College Collaborate on Environmental Restoration at the Eden Project

A new collaboration between local employer Imerys and Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project is set to strengthen the connection between modern mining and environmental restoration across Cornwall.

The partnership aims to link large-scale land restoration on former kaolin mines with the ecological expertise and research opportunities offered through Cornwall College and Eden.

100,000 Trees and Real-Time Restoration

Imerys has been leading extensive land restoration efforts on spent kaolin sites in mid-Cornwall. Earlier this year, 100,000 trees were planted at Dubbers — an area of restored land near Nanpean and Whitemoor.

Through this collaboration, ecology students from the University Centre will gain access to these restoration sites, allowing them to study nature recovery as it happens.

Peter Sawford, environmental manager at Imerys, said:

“We are in such a great position to work in this way with Cornwall College and its students – the relationship will really benefit everyone involved. We can provide access to land as it is being restored, which is fascinating to study. The faculty and students can provide us with invaluable data and expert insight into how the projects are progressing. We’re all delighted to get this partnership off the ground!”

Building Future Leaders in Ecology

Zeinab Smillie from Cornwall College University Centre added:

“Working with Imerys provides MSc students with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed to become future leaders and change-makers at a critical time. The programme combines in-depth training in environmental management and ecological restoration, with extensive hands-on experience in both fieldwork and laboratory settings, in close collaboration with Eden Project colleagues.”

Hands-On Learning and Mutual Benefits

The collaboration will include a range of opportunities such as:

• Bi-annual student site visits to survey, map and report on restored land

• Volunteering and work experience placements for students at Imerys

• Opportunities for Imerys employees to volunteer at the Eden Project

• Guest talks from Imerys at Eden and input into dissertation topics

• Drone surveying access for students studying mining land

Updates on the partnership are expected to continue into 2026 and beyond.