Sir Tim Smit

Creator of The Eden Project & The Lost Gardens of Heligan & Author of ‘Eden’

Sir Tim Smit’s Biography:

Sir Tim Smit is best known as the visionary force behind two of the UK’s most celebrated environmental and cultural landmarks: the Eden Project and The Lost Gardens of Heligan. His work has transformed previously neglected landscapes into world-leading destinations for ecological education, tourism, and community regeneration. Tim’s ability to combine storytelling, science, and entrepreneurial courage has made him an influential keynote speaker on sustainability, leadership, and innovative thinking. His belief that bold ideas, executed ethically, can completely reshape local economies continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Tim began his career far from environmental regeneration. His early professional life included work in archaeology and the music industry, where he developed a keen sense of narrative, creativity, and public engagement. However, it was his move to Cornwall that marked a turning point. Encountering the overgrown estate that would become the Lost Gardens of Heligan became a catalyst for a new mission: restoring not just landscapes, but heritage, community identity, and pride. This project would lay the groundwork for his distinctive career style—combining cultural restoration with environmental purpose.

His most transformative achievement is the Eden Project: a pioneering educational attraction housing two climate-controlled biomes representing Mediterranean and rainforest ecosystems. Eden has contributed over a billion pounds to Cornwall’s economy and has become globally recognised as an environmental “eighth wonder of the world”. Tim is also the author of several books, including ‘Eden’, ‘The Heligan Vegetable Bible’, ‘The Lost Gardens of Heligan’, and ‘Heligan: The Complete Works’, capturing the philosophy and stories behind his projects. In 2016, he purchased the Shipwreck Centre to preserve local maritime heritage, further demonstrating his commitment to cultural stewardship.

From growing up close to the poverty line to leading multi-million-pound ventures, Tim attributes his success to entrepreneurial instinct, taking measured risks, and committing to ethical practices. As a Social Enterprise Ambassador, he shares these principles widely, teaching audiences how social purpose and commercial success can coexist. His talks are known for their honesty, humour, and persuasive vision for a more sustainable future, making him a sought-after speaker across corporate, educational, and public sectors.

Why Hire Sir Tim Smit?

Tim Smit brings unmatched insights into creativity, leadership, sustainability, and building bold ideas from the ground up. His talks, including his TEDx talk ‘How We’re Going to Solve Climate Change‘, combine storytelling with practical business lessons, showing how entrepreneurial thinking can drive long-lasting environmental and social impact. Audiences value his authenticity, humour, and visionary perspective, leaving them inspired to innovate with purpose.

Sir Tim Smit’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Sir Tim Smit’s inspirational career throughout the environmental and social enterprise sectors:

• 2025 – Eden Project secures £150m for second UK development in Devon
• 2016 – Purchased and preserved The Shipwreck Centre
• 2011 – ‘Eden’ Published
• 2004 – ‘Heligan’ Published
• 2001 – Official opening of the Eden Project
• 2000 – ‘The Heligan Vegetable Bible’ Published
• 1999 – Publication of ‘Heligan: The Complete Works’
• 1997 – Publication of ‘The Lost Gardens of Heligan’
• 1990 – Began restoration of The Lost Gardens of Heligan