Theme FAQs

Why is this theme recommended?

Energy is important to all of humanity - whether it is electricity powering a supercomputer or wood fueling the fire that cooks a meal in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is a theme that will resonate with the world; energy will continue to be required in our world, but the energy we use and how we use it must be balanced with the health of the planet.

Is this the theme line that will be presented to the rest of the world?

This is only the beginning of a process to develop the theme. Once Canada decides to submit an EXPO bid to the BIE, the theme will continue to evolve and sub-themes will be added that provide more structure to the EXPO. This work happens through research, collaboration with key stakeholders, symposia with experts and consultation with other nations.

What is the purpose of the theme?

The theme becomes the guide for the content of the EXPO. It determines what topics will be explored in each of the pavilions, forms the basis for symposiums and conferences, and comes to life in the arts and culture aspects of EXPO.

Is it meant to be an 'oil and gas' theme - traditionally what we think of when we say energy?

The recommended theme is founded on the ideas of energy and sustainability - but is broad enough to encompass many definitions of energy (types, sources) and allow discussion on a myriad of energy issues (equity in access, knowledge sharing, balance between economics of energy and the environment).

This feels like a topic for developed nations, how will developing nations participate with this recommended theme?

Development of energy resources is essential for agriculture, transportation, waste collection, information technology, and communications - all prerequisites of a developed society. Consider the idea of energy equity - who has it, who needs it, who uses it, and how. Imagine if there was greater equity in energy access, so that people in developing nations did not spend the majority of their day gathering wood to get the energy to meet their basic needs - food, sterile water, etc.

How will the average visitor to EXPO get excited about this recommended theme?

We are poised on the brink of discovery in energy - EXPO 2017 could be an EXPO where phenomenal innovations are revealed to the world... life-changing innovations like the telephone was at Philadelphia's World's Fair in 1876. Concern for the planet is universal. We have already seen the public's keen interest in innovations that limit impact on the environment - hybrid vehicles, solar power, wind power, etc.

How will this recommended theme be good for Alberta? We are already criticized for our role in the energy industry.

This recommended theme can be a catalyst for the development of Alberta as world leaders in energy and sustainability. Alberta could become a centre of excellence in research, innovation, and education. The world could look to this country and province as the knowledge centre in energy and environmental sustainability.

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