When Tim Smit co-founded the Eden Project 25 years ago, the world looked dramatically different. Today, the visionary leader believes humanity is on a positive trajectory, with growing environmental awareness and deeper connections to nature.

Speaking exclusively with BrightWire on the project's 25th anniversary, Smit passionately argued that humans are fundamentally good, describing our core instincts as those of 'tribal primates' who naturally want to care for each other and find joy in community. 'People are basically good,' he explained. 'We like to look after each other. We like to be gentle. We really adore laughing.'

The Cornwall-based ecological landmark, which has welcomed 25 million visitors since opening in 2001, was created with a profound mission: to help people understand humanity's critical relationship with the plant world. 'The main inspiration was that most people didn't realise that without plants there's no life on earth,' Smit noted. 'Effectively, the Eden Project is a monument to the importance of plants.'

Despite acknowledging significant environmental challenges - including changing weather patterns and water contamination - Smit remains remarkably hopeful. He sees extreme political views as temporary reactions born from fear, comparing movements like Reform UK to 'a stag night' people will eventually regret. 'When people see that some of that future is going to be amazing, they'll cease to want to control it in quite the same way,' he predicted.

Looking forward, Smit is particularly excited about emerging technologies like mycelium networks, which can be used for building materials and environmental remediation. He also advocates strongly for British energy independence, calling it 'utterly crazy' that the nation hasn't developed a comprehensive self-sufficiency strategy.

The Eden Project continues to evolve, hosting everything from scientific exhibitions to music concerts - with upcoming performances by the Pixies and Becky Hill. Smit describes these gatherings as 'spiritual experiences with a small s' that bring people together in meaningful ways.

As the project celebrates its quarter-century milestone, Smit's message remains clear: humanity is fundamentally good, our future is bright, and by understanding our connection to the natural world, we can create remarkable positive change.