The mining group, Anglo American, is one of the major supporters of the Natural History Museum’s new state-of-the-art Darwin Centre in London, UK. The £78 million facility is a scientific research and collections housing used by over 200 scientists at any one time. “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. This close relationship, according to the company, affords it access to comprehensive and accurate baseline data, historical research and unrivalled expertise that will be invaluable in its Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Action Plans.

Coombes: “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. 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 centre will assist us in achieving this.”

The company has provided financial support for the development of the eight-storey-high Cocoon, which is the centrepiece of the building.

“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.