Background to (KEW Sample Clauses

Background to (KEW. 2.1 Kew is home to the world‟s largest and most diverse collection of living plants set in two iconic botanical landscapes. The living plant collection is not only a vital scientific resource; it creates much of the structure, character, and identity of Kew today. Within these collections is a rich horticultural heritage of unique specimens and groups of plants that require specialist identification, interpretation and management. The collection and the landscape are not static but evolve over time. 2.2 The estate and the landscape have shifted from being part of a world renowned scientific plant collection to a major visitor attraction, as well as a living collection. Education and engagement of the public has now, alongside its scientific role, become fundamental to its funding and future development. The Landscape Master Plans recommended that the gardens continue to reach out to many different sections of society and broaden their appeal and relevance. 2.3 Like all botanic gardens the landscapes reflect the dreams, practicalities and foibles of a series of directors, staff and Boards, in this case, spanning more than 250 years. Part of the primary business of a botanic garden is to grow plants outside their natural range, testing and pushing the limits of their tolerance. This means some plant survive and thrive, while others may not do either. In any case, plants die, no matter how significant they are or become. So the very nature of a botanic garden is its changing landscape.