Each World Expo lets us reflect upon the most outstanding innovative new element of the time, and to propel those ideas even further. At the Shanghai Expo, the theme of lowering man's carbon impact; one of the most pressing issues of the day will play the biggest role at this event.

In coping with the rapid global climate changes that the Earth is facing, developing a low carbon lifestyle will be crucial in the coming years. Since the industrial revolution of the 18th century, human beings have been producing large quantities of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, a major cause of global warming and the deterioration of ozone layer that protects the Earth. The climate change has resulted in glacial ablation, rising sea levels and an increased occurrence of extreme weather events, which are posing threats to countries around the world. Against this backdrop, it is common sense to develop low carbon technology and promote a low carbon lifestyle. The Expo will expand the concept of low carbon in new directions as it relates to how humans live their lives in mainstream of society.

The First Low Carbon Expo

The six-month long Expo will be entirely powered by renewable energy sources. In the 5.8 sq km Expo Park they have installed China's largest solar photovoltaic project and a group of wind generating facilities. Transportation in the park will also go green as it's based on electric vehicles, super capacitor cars and other clean energy transit, making it possible to achieve the goal of zero emissions. Eighty percent of the park's lighting will incorporate energy-saving LED bulbs. Eco-efficient construction, a river water heating energy collecting system, and other advanced technologies have been widely been adapted in the park. According to the Expo's Sci & Tech Action Plan, the emissions from general construction and lighting have been reduced by as much as 30 percent.

The low carbon concept has also been reflected in the chosen themes for pavilions of many countries as well as those of organizations and enterprises. Green and sustainable development is the core design feature for a large number of the pavilions.

The United States Pavilion, for example, whisks visitors to an American city circa 2030. The Brazilian Pavilion is a green version of the"bird's nest'. The Australian Pavilion focuses on connecting urban constructions with the natural environment to create a harmonious relationship. The Wanke Pavilion tells of the bright future that humans, nature and cities can achieve through mutual respect.

In addition, the 70 million expected visitors will partake in the low carbon slant of the Expo by taking public transportation. The Green Transportation Project encourages everyone to do their part to reduce carbon emissions. For example, the Expo Park doesn't provide a parking lot, and encourages all visitors to use public transportation. For those flying to Shanghai, the Expo suggests that they buy their carbon footprint to achieve carbon neutrality. If all is successful, the Shanghai Expo will be the largest low carbon event ever.