Cities face unprecedented challenges in balancing growth while protecting the environment. By 2050, 70% of the world’s population is expected to live in cities [2].Over the last five decades wildlife populations have fallen by 69% [3]. If biodiversity loss is to be tackled, cities need to be part of the solution. Eden Dock is a blueprint for biodiversity and habitat gain for cities around the world.
Eden Dock will enhance the way people experience the Wharf, with verdant new public spaces and extensive planting both under and around the dock’s waters. As well as enhancing the area’s biodiversity, Eden Dock will boost the wellbeing of those who work, live and visit the neighbourhood, providing access to beautiful waterside spaces and nature like never before. People will be able to take advantage of the floating gardens and boardwalks and enjoy the habitats that are now home to new wading birds, waterfowl and songbirds, as well as bees, eels and species of plants rarely seen before in London.
To mark the launch, a living artwork, Nature Rising, with over 20 living figures made of ligustrum – a flowering shrub – will be dotted around the dock. The figures show nature and people living together in harmony, reflecting how Eden Dock weaves nature into its urban surroundings through ecological innovation. The figures will become part of CWG’s permanent public art collection.
New research on the benefits of spending time outdoors in green and blue spaces reveals:
- 73% of office workers prefer to work in a location near water and green spaces
- Over two in three office workers (69%) find creative and innovative ideas come easier if they’ve been around green spaces or water
- 99% of people say engaging with nature helps them in some way, with 65% feeling more relaxed after spending time outside
- Three in four (73%) people actively seek out green spaces or water to relax.
Shobi Khan, CEO, CWG, said:
“Sustainability is part of CWG’s DNA. We’ve delivered over 11 million sq ft of sustainably certified space, purchased 100% of our electricity from renewable sources since 2012, and contributed zero waste to landfill since 2009.
“Three years ago, we partnered with world-leading charity the Eden Project to help address biodiversity loss in cities through the greening of Canary Wharf. Eden Dock is the first of its kind, a best-in-practice global example of how we can support biodiversity gain in cities and pioneer places where nature and people can both thrive. It’s about creating a resilient environment that supports the well-being of our community and the environment.
“The unveiling of Eden Dock today is another step in the evolution of Canary Wharf 3.0 and our vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood offering workspaces, retail, homes, leisure and amenities, and access to nature, all in one location.”
Speaking at the launch of Eden Dock, Mark Carney, Chair of Brookfield Asset Management, said:
“To manage the continued growth of the global urban population sustainably, we must prioritise smart urban planning, invest in resilient infrastructure and embrace innovative solutions that promote inclusivity and environmental stewardship. Our cities must be designed to enhance the quality of life for all. By taking a holistic approach that balances economic development with environmental protection, we can create vibrant sustainable urban environments that are fit for the future.”
Sir Tim Smit KBE, Co-Founder of the Eden Project, commented:
“The iconic Canary Wharf is a great location in which to ground the lightning of innovation around enhancing biodiversity in an archetypal urban landscape. Shobi’s leadership should be applauded and there has never been a more important time to enhance people’s connection with nature.
“The Eden Project is very proud to have been invited to collaborate with CWG on this project. It is our belief that the varied surfaces, textures and environments found at Eden Dock will encourage a greater diversity of life than much of the open farmland in this country. Moreover, the attention to life and beauty and the softer edges that characterise the natural worlds will directly influence the happiness and sense of belonging of all who work, live and visit here.”
