EXPO 2020 DUBAI: Theme no 1: SUSTAINABILITY

I must confess I was skeptical when I read that EXPO2020 would have a focus on sustainability given that much of the UAE's wealth has come from oil production. But by the end of 12 days at the fair, I was convinced that this was much more than just lip service. 

There really is a genuine desire to reduce reliance on oil, both the basis for its economy, and as an energy source. Fortunately, the sun shines a lot in the UAE and so solar power is a very viable alternative. But throughout the exposition, it was fascinating to see what other countries are doing to reduce greenhouse gases and get to 'net zero', which was a common theme in many pavilions, especially Germany, Singapore, and the Netherlands, to name just 3. 

As was the case at EXPO 86 in Vancouver, there were several major 'theme pavilions'. The Sustainability Pavilion, designed by the well-known UK firm Grimshaw Architects, is a self-sustaining building designed to generate 100% of its water and energy needs. 

A LEED Platinum building, the solar canopy has a diameter of 130 metres and converts sunshine into electricity for all the exhibits. The main canopy is surrounded by 18 'energy trees' clad in solar panels which rotate like sunflowers to track the sun. A 'water tree' captures humidity and converts it to water that in turn connects into the air conditioning system.

As you enter the building a wall graphic highlights how energy consumption has changed and increased so dramatically over the centuries. 

Inside, exhibits highlight "the madness of human consumption". 

One challenges the visitor to think about what they truly value by contemplating what they would save if their home were on fire. 

The tour ends on a more optimistic note with the 'Laboratory of Future Values' which highlights opportunities to save our planet.

Many of the pavilions in the Sustainability Precinct and elsewhere around the site are designed with wood exteriors and structures. They feature impressive exhibits, and my regret is that more of my colleagues in Vancouver who are interested in sustainability and sustainable development will not likely get the opportunity to experience them.