The World Expo 2010, the first world expo in a developing country, took place in Shangai, China from May 1 to October 31. It was visited by 73 million people. The theme of Expo 2010 was “Better City Better Life”. The theme represents a central concern of the international community for future policy making, urban strategies and sustainable development. In 1800, 2% of the global population lived in cities. In 2010, the figure raised to 55% as estimated by the United Nations. “Better City, Better Life,” represents the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future cities and harmonious urban life styles.
The Shangai Declaration of the World Expo 2010 was issued on October 31 by participant nations, regions and international organizations at the Summit Forum. Following is part of the text: “…We aspire to build cities that establish harmony between diverse people, between development and environment, between cultural legacies and future innovations. A City of Harmony reveals itself when people are in harmony with nature, society, and themselves, and when there is also harmony between generations. To this end, we join together in proposing: To establish an ecological civilization oriented toward the future; To pursue inclusive and balanced growth; To promote scientific and technological innovation as a path to development; To build a smart and accessible information society; To foster an open and sharing multicultural society; To build friendly and livable communities; and to pursue balanced urban-rural development.”
Expo Shanghai Online is the virtual edition of the World Expo 2010. It shows the expo site, pavillons and exhibitions.