Eden Project: The Eden Sessions

I want to introduce the Eden Project to you on Nokia Connects this week, a very special sustainable location in the heart of Cornwall, South West England. Some of you may have seen the eco-classic 1996 film Bio-Dome (check out the trailer if not)? Well this collection of ‘biomes’ is the real deal. I’m also going to tell you about the Eden Sessions, a music festival that take place there every year, featuring (in 2012) our very own #MusicMania competition band for this week – The Vaccines.

via ell-famous

The Eden Project opened to the public in the year 2000, the project took two and a half years to construct and is a living example of regeneration and sustainable living. It has a Mediterranean and Rainforest Biome, huge outdoor gardens and is more than just an attraction, it is a charity and social enterprise! More importantly it looks like something from the future if you ask me…

via Eden Project

In fact, here are 10 reasons you should visit this shining example of sustainability as part of our sustainability week on Nokia Connects:

1. The world’s largest rainforest in captivity (with steamy jungles and waterfalls)
2. World-class sustainable sculpture and art
3. Stunning garden displays all year round
4. A rainforest lookout that takes you above the treetops
5. Evening gigs, concerts, an ice rink in the winter and rock climbing
6. Educational centre for all ages
7. Cutting-edge architecture and buildings
8. Seasonal demonstrations like apple pressing and pruning
9. Cafes and restaurants offering fresh and healthy food that has been sourced ethically
10. Free land train pulled by a tractor!

via edenprojecttv

Now, I’m about to elaborate on point 5 from the ’10 reasons’ above for you a little.

Since 2002 the Eden Project has played host to some of the world’s biggest musicians at the Eden Sessions. The sessions are a series of live music festivals held every summer designed to encourage audiences to think about how they can reduce their impact on the environment.  Previous acts have included Calvin Harris, Primal Scream, Kasabian, Jack Johnson and Amy Winehouse. But this year (2012 line-up) the likes of Blink 182, Plan B, Chase & Status and The Vaccines will be taking to the main stage.

via edenprojecttv

This week we are running our #MusicMania competition with The Vaccines, so if you don’t get the chance to go and see them at the Eden Sessions then why not enter here to win a signed vinyl album from the band, plus a Nokia Lumia 610.

If you want to listen an exclusive mix of their favourite tunes, their Celebrity Mix on Nokia’s Mix Radio includes artists like Lou Reed, T-Rex, Abba, The Band, Rolling Stones, Placebo and Spiritualized. If you would like to drop me any thoughts about The Eden Project then please do so below in the comments section, I’m more than happy to let you know some more info about the world’s largest greenhouse!

Final thought: ever wondered how big your carbon footprint is?