12 of UAE’s challenges outlined at Milan Expo

Twelve challenges that the UAE is tackling with land, energy, food and water are outlined in the country's pavilion at the Milan Expo.

The solutions and challenges pertain to the UAE but apply globally, according to the National Media Council.

With Dubai hosting the next World Expo in 2020, the UAE pavilion is seen as an important marker in attracting attention. It is a stunning creation of British architects Foster + Partners, with exhibits behind 12-metre high walls.

Sand dunes were photographed to ensure the ripple effect on the pavilion walls reflect the patterns of the dunes. The cladding of the pavilion has been designed so that it can be dismantled and transported to Masdar City in Abu Dhabi at the conclusion of the Milan Expo in November.

Alongside the exhibits, five films showcase how techniques used by earlier generations of salting and preserving fish with spices are relevant to today's world.

The importance of the date palm tree, details of how it has provided sustenance and shelter for centuries is also explored for visitors.

The pavilion examines the Milan Expo theme of Feeding the Planet – Energy for Life, as part of a central message on sustainability.

The installations also illustrate how the UAE's solar plant Shams1 can power 20,000 homes and scientists in the Masdar Institute are creating biofuels to power jet engines.

Interactive displays also include a special exhibit celebrating Dubai as the host or the 2020 Expo after which visitors reach a green oasis.

"Our design highlights the challenges of sustaining life in a desert climate, while demonstrating how efficient passive design solutions can help to support sustainable modern communities,” said the renowned British architect Norman Foster.
Source: The National