The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) has published the 2017 edition of its annual Bulletin, this year entitled “Sustainable Innovation and Legacies in Expos of the 21st Century: A World in Common”.

The BIE Bulletin is an annual publication focusing on a specific theme or issue arising from Expos, featuring articles written by internationally renowned experts. The 2017 edition includes contributions from key figures in the organisation of 21st century Expos as well as from leading urban planners and architects, illustrating the many ways in which Expos contribute to sustainability and innovation.

Drawing on real examples from recent Expos and Expo 2020 Dubai – the next World Expo – the Bulletin offers an analysis of sustainability cultivated at Expos through both concrete innovations and intangible legacies. Insightful and demonstrative case studies are highlighted, ranging from urban planning to carbon neutral transport options, recycling systems and eco-friendly architecture. The Bulletin also details the many ways in which Expos leave a lasting intellectual legacy through forums, international agreements and the generation of innovative policies and heightened public engagement.

The Secretary General of the BIE, Vicente G. Loscertales highlighted: “the articles featured in the Bulletin attest to the role played by Expos as forward-looking enterprises that reflect the concerns of their time and anticipate challenges for a sustainable future. By fostering innovation and the exchange of ideas, Expos create, showcase and share sustainable best practices and solutions, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”

The first part of the Bulletin – “Sustainable Innovation at World Expos” features articles by architect and urban planner Professor Joan Busquets, architects Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill, former Expo 2015 Milan Sustainability Manager Gloria Zavatta, former Expo 2005 Aichi Secretary General Toshio Nakamura, and architects Sir Nicholas Grimshaw and Andrew Whalley.

The second part focuses on intangible and sustainable legacies, featuring contributions by H.E. Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of the Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau, Dr. Cheng Jian of the Shanghai Coordination Center of the World Cities Day, Ambassador Eduardo Lopez Busquets, former Deputy Commissioner of Expo 2008 Zaragoza, and Shohei Fukui, former Chief Producer at Expo 2005 Aichi.