Anglo American supports the Darwin Centre
14 September, 2009
Anglo American plc continues its commitment to biodiversity research through its support for the Natural History Museum's new Darwin Centre.
Global diversified mining group Anglo American plc is one of the major supporters of the Natural History Museum’s new state-of-the-art Darwin Centre in London, UK. It has provided financial support for the development of the eight-storey-high Cocoon, which is the centrepiece of the Darwin Centre.
“Anglo American has been involved with the Natural History Museum over the past decade. We were delighted to be invited by the museum in 2006 to be part of this iconic project and are excited by the opportunities it will present us,” said Peter Coombes, Anglo American Group Head of Sustainable Development.
"We look forward to working with the museum more closely to gain an increased understanding of the environmental issues that affect our day-to-day operations around the world.”
The £78 million Darwin Centre – which was opened by HRH Prince William of Wales today – is a scientific research and collections facility used by over 200 scientists at any one time and is considered a centre of excellence in the understanding and progression of natural science.
“We are acutely aware of the potential impact that our
activities can have on biodiversity and the environment, and of our
responsibility to prevent and reduce those impacts to the best of
our ability. Our relationship with the Natural History
Museum and the new Darwin Centre will assist us in achieving
this,” said Peter Coombes.
This close relationship with the Natural History Museum affords Anglo American access to comprehensive and accurate baseline data, historical research and unrivalled expertise that will be invaluable in the company’s Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Action Plans – measures the mining group have in place to manage its environmental footprint.
“The value of the partnership is that both sides bring something to the table. We think that Anglo American will benefit from the work that is done here in the Darwin Centre and we also benefit, not just from the financial contribution, but from an on going relationship with Anglo American in terms of our science,” said Dr Michael Dixon, Natural History Museum Director.