BIE-regulated expositions generally carry a theme that echoes the current human situation or environmental issues. For the upcoming expo in Shanghai, the theme ‘Better City, Better Life’ has been chosen to reflect the on-going international effort to improve people’s quality of life, while at the same time striving to maintain a harmonious relationship with the environment.

The Expo 2010 Shanghai will stress the importance of eco-friendly designs. All pavilion buildings will be constructed for optimum energy conservation. Participants are required to comply with the organizer’s strict specifications on energy saving and environmental protection.

The venue for the Expo 2010 is a massive tract of 5.28 square kilometers on the banks of the Huangpu River between the Nanpu Bridge and the Lupu Bridge in Shanghai. To date, some 240 exhibitors, comprising countries and international agencies, have confirmed their participation in the event.