DELIVERING ASUSTAINABLE EXPO
Expo 2020 Dubai Sustainability Report 2018

“We pay the utmost care and attention to our environment
for it is an integral part of the country, our history and ourheritage. Our forefathers and our ancestors lived in thisland and coexisted with its environment, on land and sea,
and instinctively realised the need to preserve it.”LATE SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYANFounder of the UAE

“Protection of the environment and achievement ofsustainable development in the UAE is a national duty; it
has its own institutional structures, integrated legislature
and advanced systems.”
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH KHALIFA BIN ZAYED AL NAHYANPresident of the United Arab Emirates

“We are building a new reality for our people, a new futurefor our children, and a new model of development.”
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM
Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

“The civilised, advanced nation we seek to build and thesustainable development we are keen to achieve both requireconcerted efforts from all sectors of the community and fromall public and private entities and organisations. They requireconsistent and harmonious work in order to achieve our goals
and promote and underpin our nation’s status with its distinctrole regionally and internationally.”
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN
Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces

INTRODUCTIONHIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH AHMED
BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM
President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
Chairman of the Expo Dubai 2020 Higher Committee

It gives me great pleasure to introduce the first Expo 2020 Dubai
Sustainability Report (2018) as we build up to the World Expo in 2020.
Through this report, we aim to provide our stakeholders and all interested
parties with a platform to view our sustainability standards and activities,
in line with the commitments we have made to the Bureau International
des Expositions (BIE).
Our focus is to outline the various ways the Expo 2020 Dubai family has
helped to establish and adhere to environmental and societal proposed
norms and regulations. We present how we have maintained an ethos ofsustainable progress and commitment.
Expo 2020 Dubai provides us with the opportunity to express the proud
spirit and values of our nation. For the UAE, the event is especially significant
because it will coincide with the 50 th anniversary of the founding of theUnited Arab Emirates, our Golden Jubilee. The future is full of exciting
possibilities and we look forward to tomorrow with an invigorated spirit
as we proudly carry forward the legacy of our forefathers.
By initiating sustainability objectives and performance targets, and by
tracking our performance against targets over time, we are safeguardingtransparency and fulfilling our promise of adherence to UAE Vision 2021.
The progress and efficiency of our work ensures that we are acting
steadfastly towards not only delivering an exceptional Expo, but also
one of the most sustainable World Expos in history.
As we create a lasting legacy that lives up to our theme ‘Connecting minds,
Creating the future’, we aim to develop and advance scalable, sustainable
solutions whose benefits extend to our local community and the world
beyond. Together, with all our stakeholders, we aim to deliver an exceptional
Expo that will have an impactful legacy.
Our goal is to deliver a World Expo that celebrates the potential of humancooperation, one which motivates and drives a positive, enduring impact
on the future of communities around the world.
Expo 2020 Dubai will be a festival of imagination that will inspire innovationand provide a forum that cultivates sustainable solutions to global
challenges. As we work towards Expo 2020 Dubai, we look to our nation’ssustainable development goals as a foundation for boosting overallhappiness levels in our communities.

INTRODUCTION

HER EXCELLENCY REEMEBRAHIM AL HASHIMYUAE Minister of State for International Cooperation
Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau

The world is watching as we gear up to host the first World Expo in the
Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. Expo 2020 Dubai
will be a unique global event connecting more than 190 countries andthe international business community by engaging millions of visitors
around our themes of opportunity, mobility and sustainability.
Expo 2020 Dubai has designed its Sustainability Strategy to integratesustainability throughout every function of this World Exposition. We havealready begun to deliver an impact beyond our event site to inspire theglobal community towards the opportunity of creating a sustainable future.
As such, we have structured our 2018 Sustainability Report around ourthree pillars – integrate, impact and inspire – through which we follow theGRI Standard, which is used by leading organisations globally, to ensurebalance, transparency and accountability.
We are very proud to have created a healthy work environment where all
employees are encouraged to deliver their objectives with integrity, humility,
respect, cooperation and excellence. With more than a hundred million work
hours already completed, our sustainable practices have been embraced byour staff and stakeholders alike.
Expo 2020 Dubai is an exciting opportunity to advance the UAE’s own
sustainability goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development
Agenda. These initiatives are ingrained in our mission and throughout thisSustainability Report to build a legacy after Expo 2020 Dubai closes its
doors. Following the six-month World Expo, the event site will betransformed into ‘District 2020’ to continue advancing smart technology,
smart infrastructure, wellness and sustainability to go on inspiring future
generations of innovators and pioneers.
Through this first annual Sustainability Report, we offer a unique insight
into the evolution of our sustainability strategy and sustainability practices
at Expo 2020 Dubai by highlighting the economic, social and environmental
impact of Expo 2020 within the United Arab Emirates in 2018. We are on
our way to meeting and exceeding our sustainability commitments as we
prepare to welcome the world in 2020.

CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. About Expo 2020 Dubai

9

A. About This Report

10

B. Expo 2020: At a Glance11

2. The Foundations of a Sustainable Expo

28

A. Integrate

29

B. Impact

39

C. Inspire72

3. The Legacy

94

A. Expo 2020 Legacy Contribution

95

B. District 2020 – The Future of the Expo Site

96

4.	Expo 2020 Contribution to the Sustainable
Development Goals

100

A. The SDGs and Expo 2020 Dubai Operations

101

5. GRI Content Index and Topic Boundaries

105

A. GRI Content Index

106

B. Boundaries

110

C. Acronyms and Abbreviations

111

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ABOUT EXPO
2020 DUBAIABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

A. ABOUT THIS REPORTThis is the first Sustainability Report for
Expo 2020 Dubai. This report has been
prepared in accordance with the Global
Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards: Core
option. The GRI Standards are a globally
recognised sustainability reporting
mechanism, which provides a common
language and platform for organisations
and their stakeholders to communicate
their economic, environmental and social
impacts. Using a balanced and transparent
approach, this annual report conveys theimpacts of Expo 2020 Dubai within the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2018.

i.

SCOPE

The performance data provided inthis report covers the period between
1 January 2018 and 31 December 2018.
Where relevant, data and initiatives
from previous years have also been
included to demonstrate trends in
improvement and growth.

ii.

CONTENTThe sustainability performance
information detailed in this reportfollows the set principles of balance,transparency and accountability, toensure content quality and to set thisSustainability Report as a benchmark
for similar events around the world.

Accordingly, Expo 2020’s Sustainability
Strategy is designed to Integrate, Impact
and Inspire. Expo 2020 Dubai seeks tointegrate sustainability into all aspectsof Expo, to embed it within theorganisation’s DNA and strengthen
it as a subtheme.
Expo 2020 embraces the opportunity
to make a meaningful impact, extending
beyond the site and beyond the six monthsof the event. It aims to inspire visitors andthe community to become part of thesolution for a sustainable future.
As such, the 2018 Sustainability Report
is structured around these three pillars.

iii. CONTACT
Expo 2020 Dubai aims to meet its
commitment to sustainability by
maintaining close communication with its
stakeholders. To ensure better sustainability
performance during and after the event,
Expo 2020 welcomes comments, questions
or suggestions related to this Sustainability
Report. Communication with Expo 2020
can be initiated via the following email
address: sustainability@expo2020.ae
An electronic version of thisreport can be downloaded atwww.expo2020dubai.com

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

B. EXPO 2020: AT A GLANCE
i. 	THE ROLE OF THE BUREAU
INTERNATIONAL DESEXPOSITIONS

ii.	THE HISTORY OF WORLDEXPOSThe Bureau International des Expositions(BIE) is an intergovernmental organisationthat has encouraged education,
innovation and cooperation throughthe administration and regulation ofWorld Expos since 1931. Today, fourmain Expos fall under its umbrella:
World Expos, International Specialised
Expos, Horticultural Exhibitions, and the
Design Triennale of Milan.
BIE’s organisational structure includes
the General Assembly, Committees, theSecretariat and 170 countries or Member
States. To date, more than 50 Expos havebeen organised under the auspices of theBIE, with the objective of ensuring thequality of Expos, as well as guarding therights of their organisers and participants.

Since London’s Great Exhibition in 1851,
World Expos have been a platform foreducational, economic and culturalchange. They have inspired millions ofpeople from around the globe, unitedcultures and showcased innovations,while also encouraging and stimulating
new and exciting paths to progress.
The World Expos are one of theoldest and largest international events,
arranged and assisted by governmentswith the intention of educating the
public, promoting progress and fostering
cooperation. These events are a festival
of wonder and imagination, wherevisitors can experience, explore, discoverand have fun while sharing ideas andworking together.
World Expos give countries theopportunity to showcase their culture
and display their architectural andtechnological abilities. In the past,
paradigm-shifting discoveries suchas the telephone, X-ray machines andarchitectural marvels such as the Eiffel
Tower have all made their debut atdifferent World Expo events. Today,these Expos continue to bring theworld together for a global exhibitionof solutions to the fundamental
challenges facing humanity.

FIGURE 1 A Timeline of Key World Expos
STEAM ENGINE
London,UK

PHONOGRAPH
Paris,
FranceEIFFEL TOWER
Paris,
FranceTELEVISIONNew York,
USA

1851

1878

1889

1939

1876

1885

1904

2005

TELEPHONE
Philadelphia,
USA

AUTOMOBILE
Antwerp,
Belgium

AIRSHIP
St. Louis,
USA

FROZENMAMMOTH
Aichi,Japan

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

iii. THE EXPO 2020 DUBAI THEME
On 27 November 2013, Dubai was selected by a record vote by the BIE members
to host the World Expo in 2020 – becoming the first Arab nation and first country
in the Middle East Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region to host the event. Dubai’s
winning bid was an inspiring collaboration between the UAE’s leadership and theevent’s organisers to plan, design and operate an event with a legacy that would
last for generations.
Under the theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 Dubai is about
forging new connections and new partnerships across sectors and geographies toinspire solutions that will shape the future. Within this overarching theme, Expo 2020
has identified three interconnected drivers of progress – Opportunity, Mobility andSustainability – as subthemes.

FIGURE 2 Expo 2020 Three Subthemes

OPPORTUNITY

MOBILITYSUSTAINABILITY

Unlocking the potential
within individuals andcommunities to shape
the future. This subtheme
will address:	New industries	
Employment
	
Education
	Financial capital	
Governance

Creating smarter and moreproductive connections.
The physical movementof people and goods
forms an invisible tierof meaning, changing,shifting and expanding
as new relationships,
routes and platforms
facilitate the movementof not only people andgoods but also ideas. Thisis further enhanced andstrengthened throughdigital communication
pathways that create an
entirely new platform fromwhich to access people,
services and experiences.
This will be addressed
through the following
channels:	Logistics	Personal mobility	Transportation
	Travel and exploration
	Digital connectivity

Living in balancewith the world. This
subtheme touches theenvironmental, economic
and social dimensionsof the places where welive and explores how
we can connect to themin a way that protects
and enhances our natural
resources. It is basedon the belief that every
generation is responsible
for safeguarding theworld for the future.
Visitors to Expo 2020
will gain awarenessabout the following:	Resources	Climate change	Green growth	Natural ecosystems
and biodiversity	Sustainable cities
and the built habitat

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

1.

Expo 2020’s Global Platform

The theme and subthemes of Expo 2020
Dubai have been developed to capture
the common aspirations that link the
UAE leadership’s vision for the future(from Vision 2021 through to the 2071
Centennial Plan), regional priorities andglobal challenges; as reflected in the2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development and the United Nations(UN) Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs).

The Expo 2020 Dubai theme andsubthemes will be brought to life throughan events programme that will provide a
powerful opportunity to captivate, inspireand enthral visitors from across the world,
encouraging them to engage with thethematic content in new and entertaining
ways. The Expo programme of events
is not limited to the six-month durationof Expo 2020 Dubai, and planning has
already been well underway since 2017.

Creating a more sustainable future
is a global concern – as one of Expo2020’s main subthemes, the concept ofsustainability is in its DNA. Expo 2020
Dubai will use its platform to create
a global movement towards positivechange. With immersive technologies
within the Sustainability Pavilion, groundbreaking innovations and a sustainableinfrastructure, Expo hopes to createconnections across the world that willbring people, businesses and countries
together to develop solutions to these
global issues.

Expo 2020 Dubai will engage with theinternational community: the total numberof visits is expected to reach 25 million,
with 70 per cent of visitors projected tocome from outside of the UAE. Visitors
will be able to embark on a seamless
journey for seeking collective solutions
to the global challenges of Opportunity,
Mobility and Sustainability.
By creating a dynamic and welcoming
hub of innovation, collaboration andaspiration, the UAE will be ready to deliver
an exceptional Expo, with a lasting legacyof partnerships and associations thatwill bring enduring benefits and touchthe lives of people across the world forgenerations to come.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX2.

The Expo 2020 Logo

The official Expo 2020 logo was launchedin March 2016 at a ceremony held by
the Dubai Fountain in Downtown Dubai,
which saw it projected onto the façadeof the Burj Khalifa in front of thousandsof supporters, including His Highness
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum. The logo was designed throughan international competition announced
in 2015, which attracted more than 19,000
entries from around the world.
The competition’s objective was tocreate a logo design which embodied
the Expo theme of ‘Connecting Minds,
Creating the Future’.
The winning logo has been hailed ‘asan authentic Emirati logo’, embodying
the rebirth of ancient history and its
connection with modern UAE aspirations,represented by a shape that evokes

connectivity, resilience and strength.
The emblem is inspired by the shape of
an intricate gold ring discovered in 2002
at Saruq Al-Hadid, an archaeologicalsite set amid the spectacular desert
landscape of southern Dubai. The ring andcorresponding Expo 2020 logo represent
a 4,000-year-old civilisation (one that left
significant clues as to their metallurgicalprowess), and its connection to thecontemporary era, where Dubai continues
to make significant strides as a connectorof civilisations and a centre of innovation.

EXPO 2020 VALUESHUMILITY

HU

Upholding a culture of humility, understanding and openness.
Listening to one another, being welcoming and curious aboutcolleagues’ ideas and initiatives and taking full advantage of
Expo’s rich diversity as a cornerstone for success.

MILITYRESPECT
Being respectful of one another, and adhering to Expo’s codeof conduct. Being considerate and sensitive to all cultures andethnic diversities, nurturing an environment that champions
the strength that comes from variety.

RES ECTP

INTEGRITY

INT

Believing in the power of integrity, and in never compromisingon the commitment towards high standards of behaviour, thecourage to stand up for what one believes in and the boldness
needed to confront the greatest challenges.

EGRITYEXCELLENCEEX

CELLENCE

Pursuing excellence, not just in what Expo does, but in what it
aims to be; through learning, remaining curious and inspired
to strive and, ultimately, to succeed.

COOPERATION

CO

OPE

R AT I O

N

Recognising the importance of working in cooperation andcollaboration with a shared purpose. Understanding that theunity of Expo team, its family, is also its ultimate strength.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

iv. SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
During the World Expo bid, Expo 2020
Dubai made a number of commitments
to the BIE, including a pledge ‘to deliver
one of the most sustainable World Exposin history’.
Expo 2020 Dubai focuses on the UAE’s
ongoing transition to a knowledgebased economy, fuelled by Opportunity,
Mobility and Sustainability. Driving the‘Green Economy’ is both key to and a daily
practice for Expo 2020. It is not just about‘green business’; by adopting improved
water technologies, photovoltaic (PV)panels or greener materials, it is also theway the UAE conducts business, makes
connections and addresses challenges
through innovative solutions. At theheart of this is Expo 2020 – opportunity,
entrepreneurship, education, connectivity
and future growth.
Expo 2020 Dubai’s comprehensive
sustainability strategy will focus on key
sustainability target areas and develop
key performance indicators (KPIs) withineach to reach its objectives and ‘deliver
one of the most sustainable World Exposin history’. It includes four key objectives:	Leave a legacy of sustainableinfrastructure and cutting-edge
sustainability practices
	Catalyse sustainability efforts in
Dubai and the UAE

	Increase public awareness andengage society about sustainability
principles and sustainable living
	Develop sustainability solutions thatare scalable, extending benefits tothe wider economy
To achieve a sustainable Expo 2020
Dubai, a coherent, strategic approachaddressing all of the key sustainability
areas is required, which is also alignedwith national and sub-national drivers.
This programme-wide Sustainability
Strategy sets out the overall methodology
for the integration of sustainability into
the planning, design, construction andoperational processes and provides aframework for each of the identified
key areas. This programme-wide
Sustainability Strategy provides thefollowing:	Programme-wide approach tosustainability, prioritising thedelivery of passive solutions
	Programme-wide approach tointegrated sustainable design	Sustainability key areas approach
Therefore, sustainability shall be
implemented across all elements anddisciplines of design and construction
through an integrated design process
to achieve the best sustainability
outcomes for the programme.

FIGURE 3 Expo 2020 Alignment with Regional and Global Aspirations

Global Policy 2030
Agenda for Sustainable
Development

UAE Vision 2021

Dubai Plan 2021

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16

FIGURE 4 Expo 2020 Sustainability Objectives and KPIs

Transport

EnergyProvide sustainable, lower carbon
public transport

Reduce energy
consumption

KPI

20%

KPI

Significant deviation from baselinein passenger modal shifts

outperformance of the
ASHRAE 90.1 standard
for building efficiency

Public Realm
Create people-centric, comfortable
and walkable spaces

Ecology
Enhance the ecologicalvalue of the site andpromote local species

KPI

60%

KPI

75%

of primary
walkways inthematic districts
to provide shadeat 13.00

KPI

of hardlandscaping in
self-built pavilion
areas and public
open spaces toprovide shadeat 13.00

50%

of landscape plants to benative/adaptive species

KPI

95%

Water
1 Minimise potable water

consumption through useof recycled waterof landscape area managed without
the use of chemical pesticides,
herbicides or fertilisers

2 Reduce water
consumption

KPI

KPI

100%

of non-potable exteriorwater uses (e.g. irrigation,
cooling) to be met by treatedsewage effluent (TSE)

KPI

95%

of condensate recoveredfrom buildings

40%

improvement on Dubai Electricity
and Water Authority (DEWA)
baseline to reduce water
consumption in buildings

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

17

Waste
Minimise quantityof waste to landfill

Materials
Minimise depletionof natural resources
through design forreuse and Legacy

KPI

85%

(by weight) of waste segregated into
different waste streams, during construction,
operation and decommissioning, to allow
for diversion from landfill

Sustainability Awareness

KPI

90%

Enable visitors, participants andfacility managers to appreciate,understand and contribute to
the responsible use of resourcesof materials used inpermanent construction
to be retained for Legacy
KPI

75%

KPI

of materials in temporary
construction to be
redeployed, taken backor recycled

75%

of sustainability featureswith educational awareness,collateral or activities

Sustainable Events
Operations andManagement

Sustainability
Certification
Demonstrate added value
through sustainability
certification of both horizontal
and vertical infrastructure

Communicate sustainability
progress and achievements ina transparent and stakeholder
responsive way

KPI

KPI

Achieve ISO 20121
Sustainable EventManagement
certification

Publish sustainability
reports based oninternationallyrecognised guidelines

KPI

Achieve LEEDGold Certification
for Expo building
projects

KPI

Achieve CEEQUAL
Excellent Certification
for Expo infrastructure
projects

CarbonMinimise carbon emissions
in Expo 2020 Dubai

KPI

Fully implement agreenhouse gas (GHG)
mitigation and offsetting strategy

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Expo 2020 Dubai has more than 40 KPIs
in 11 categories and is working with thedesign and construction teams to meet thetargets for the base-build and event phase.
There are an additional four categories forthe legacy phase that are being integrated
into the legacy master plan.

Expo 2020 aims to expand its impact
beyond the boundaries of the site andbeyond the six months of the event toinspire change on a national, regionaland global scale, and lead to asustainable future.

FIGURE 5 The Sustainability Impact of Expo 2020

Deliverat Expo Site

Contributenationally

Influence
regionally

The Expo 2020 Dubai Site2018 was a year of intense on-site construction
activity, witnessing the transformation of thesubthemes into structural proof on the Expo site.
Several key buildings and projects were completed,including a significant portion of the infrastructure.
In April, handover of selected plots began forparticipating countries and organisations to start
construction work on their pavilions, while the Metroviaduct on the Expo site was completed in July.
Given the nature of the organisation in this pre-event
phase and the focus on construction activities in
2018, reporting on the total number of operations, net

Catalyse
globally

sales and revenues, total capitalisation and quantity of
products and services provided are not applicable.
The 4.38 sq km Expo 2020 site is located in the Dubai
South region and was chosen for optimum operational
and logistical efficiency. It is accessible by one-thirdof the world’s population within a four-hour plane
journey, and is also located mid-way between thecities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It is served by three
airports, including Al Maktoum International Airport,
which is approximately six kilometres from the Exposite centre. Expo 2020 Dubai will be the first Expo thatis relatively accessible for many millions of people in
the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

Expo
2020

60

mins
Al Bateen
Executive
Airport (AZI)

30

mins

50

mins

40

mins
Abu Dhabi
International
Airport (AUH)

15

mins
Al Maktoum Intl.
Airport (DWC)

DubaiInternational
Airport (DXB)18

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXv.

THE MASTER PLAN

At the core of the Master Plan are three distinct Thematic Districts which converge
at the central Al Wasl Plaza, each focused on one of the subthemes.

8

11

9
2

10

7

6
3

1

2

2

4
8

5

6

8
11
11

1

THEMATIC DISTRICTS
Three petal-shaped Thematic
Districts extend from Al Wasl Plaza,accommodating country pavilions
in individual building structures.
The design reflects the region’s
traditional urban developments,
with permanent buildings, narrow
walkways and courtyards.

2

AL WASL PLAZA
Al Wasl Plaza is situated at
the heart of the Expo site andserves as a gateway to eachof the primary concourses.
The domed trellis acts as a
360-degree video projection,
which will create an immersive
experience that can also beviewed from the sky above.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXv.

THE MASTER PLAN (cont.)

SUSTAINABILITY PAVILION
True to its subtheme, the LEED
Platinum-certified Sustainability
Pavilion is targeting zeronet energy consumption.
Sustainable features include
9,300 sq metres of PV panelson the steel canopy, 4,100 sq
metres of PV panels across18 ‘Energy Trees’, and a systemthat filters and reuses watercollected through the canopy.

3

UAE PAVILIONA LEED Platinum-certified
building, the innovative
design was inspired by aflying falcon. The longest
individual wing section on
the roof is 70 metres.

5

MOBILITY PAVILION
The Mobility Pavilion which
is a LEED Gold building,features a dynamic landscapewith undulating tracks anddemonstration areas for thelatest innovations related to
the Mobility subtheme.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXv.

THE MASTER PLAN (cont.)

PARKS
Two major parks provide
space for large outdoor
performance areas, plus zones
for recreational activities.
Facilities include washrooms,
prayer rooms and food andbeverage outlets. Total park
areas add up to 45,000 m2.

6

7

ARRIVAL PLAZASThere are four entrances tothe Expo 2020 site: threeleading to the welcome plazas
for each Thematic District, anda fourth entrance concourse
running from the Metro
Station to the DEC.

8

DUBAI EXHIBITION CENTRE
The Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC)will be used as a multi-purpose
function and event venue.

21

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22

THE MASTER PLAN (cont.)

9

PERMANENT BUILDINGSAND INFRASTRUCTURE
All permanent buildings on the
Expo site are on track to achievea minimum of LEED Gold andthe highest rated infrastructurein the region: CEEQUAL
Excellence.

METRO STATIONThe Metro Station is part ofRoute 2020, an extension
created by the Roads andTransport Authority (RTA) toserve the Expo site. With a fleetof 50 trains, it will run every two
minutes, carrying up to 46,000
passengers per hour.

1011

CAR PARKS
Approximately 30,000 car parking
spaces will be available during
Expo 2020. The roads were built
using reclaimed crushed concrete,salvaged from previous buildings.

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

vi. PARTICIPATING COUNTRIESTo date, 192 countries have confirmed their participation in Expo 2020, out of which
136 countries have publicly announced their participation.

192

COUNTRIES HAVECONFIRMED THEIRPARTICIPATION

136

COUNTRIES HAVEPUBLICLY ANNOUNCED
THEIR PARTICIPATION

AngolaAntigua &BarbudaArgentina

Armenia

Australia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belgium

BelizeBosnia andHerzegovina

Botswana

BrazilBulgaria

Burkina Faso

Cabo VerdeCambodia

CanadaCentralAfricanRepublic

Chad

Chile

China

Comoros

Costa Rica

Croatia

Cuba

Czech
Republic

Djibouti

Dominica

Dominican
Republic

Egypt

Ethiopia

Equatorial
GuineaFinlandFranceGabon

Germany

Ghana

GreeceGrenadaGuatemalaGuinea-Bissau

GuyanaHaiti

Hungary

India

Indonesia

Iran

Ireland

Italy

JamaicaJapan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Kingdom ofLesotho

Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia

KuwaitKyrgyzstan

LatviaLiberia

Lithuania

Luxembourg

MalawiMalaysia

Malta

MarshallIslands

Mauritania

MexicoMoldova

MonacoMontenegro

MoroccoMozambique

Namibia

Nauru

Niger

Nigeria

Nepal

New
Zealand

NorwayOman

Pakistan

Palestine

PanamaPortugal

PolandRepublic ofCongo

Republic ofGuineaRepublic of
Korea

Republic of
Tajikistan

RussiaRwandaSaint Kitts& NevisSaint Lucia

Saint Vincent
and theGrenadines

Samoa

San Marino

SenegalSerbiaSeychelles

Sierra Leone

Slovakia

Slovenia

SolomonIslands

SomaliaSouth Africa

Spain

Sri Lanka

Suriname

SwedenSwitzerland

Tanzania

ThailandThe
BahamasThe
Netherlands

Timor-Leste

Togo

Tonga

Tunisia

UkraineUnitedKingdom

United States Ugandaof America

Turkmenistan Tuvalu

Yemen

23

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

vii. GOVERNANCE
1.

Corporate Governance

STATUTORY AND LEGAL BACKGROUND
Pursuant to the Convention Relating toInternational Exhibitions, signed in Parison 22 November 1928 and the regulations
made for its implementation, as the hostof Expo 2020 Dubai, the UAE is required
to implement a series of legislative andfinancial measures to facilitate the event’sorganisation. To comply with its obligations
under the convention, the UAE Governmentis developing the legal, financial andorganisational measures necessary toorganise and host the event successfully.
To this end, the Dubai Government
established the World Expo 2020
Preparatory Committee (the Higher
Committee) through Decree 49 of 2013.
The Higher Committee was formed tooversee the overall planning and deliveryof Expo 2020’s requirements and activities.
Decree 30 of 2014, issued on 25 June
2014, set up the Bureau Expo Dubai
2020 (the Bureau), while Decree 31 of2014 appointed Her Excellency Reem
Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State forInternational Cooperation, as the Director
General of the Bureau.
On 12 December 2015, the Bureau
incorporated Expo Dubai 2020 LLC in the
Department of Economic Development.
This company set up a Board of Directors
to advise the Director General on
operational development and overseeing
the Expo, reporting through the Bureau to
the Higher Committee.
Compliance to laws and regulations areadministered by respective departments
pertaining to their scope. Expo 2020 has
a dedicated internal audit team whichmonitors each department’s compliancebased on their operations. This process isoverseen by higher management to ensure
full compliance to applicable laws andregulations in the UAE.

To centralise strategic decisions, theHigher Committee was established under
the supervision of His Highness Sheikh
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Second
Vice Chairman of the Dubai Executive
Council. The Higher Committee was formed
to facilitate a coordinated government
approach to the planning and deliveryof the event. The Higher Committee’sfunctions and powers include:	Setting up the strategic plan forthe organisation of the committee’s
work to reach its objectives
	Preparing for the execution of
Expo 2020 Dubai
	Evaluating the infrastructure’s
capability to host Expo 2020
Dubai (such as tourism andhealth departments and the roadtransportation network)	Determining Dubai’s requirements
for facilities, financial, equipment,
artistic, media, economic and touristic
resources to host Expo 2020
	Coordinating with all the public andprivate authorities inside and outside
the Emirate of Dubai and in all aspects
related to Expo 2020 Dubai
	Choosing the location for the
execution of Expo 2020 Dubai
	Determining programmes, events andexhibitions related to Expo 2020 Dubai
	S upervising the marketing andadvertising for the Emirate ofDubai (locally, regionally andinternationally) to ensure Expo
2020 is a success	Continuing to attract local, regional,
international companies and entities
to sponsor Dubai as host of Expo2020
	Supervising the publicity around
Expo 2020 Dubai and supporting
it with the aid of companies andentities specialised in this field	Managing any other functions andpowers as the committee sees fit
to fulfil its mission

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXHIGHER COMMITTEE
The Higher Committee’s members come from various government organisations across theUAE, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. The members of the committee are:His Highness Sheikh
Ahmed Bin
Saeed Al Maktoum

His Excellency
Mohammed Ibrahim
Al Shaibani

President, Dubai Civil
Aviation Authority
Chairman of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

Director General, HH
The Ruler’s Court of Dubai, UAE
Vice Chairman of the Expo
Dubai 2020 Higher Committee

His Excellency
Dr. Sultan Ahmed
Al Jaber

His Excellency
Mohamed Alabbar

Cabinet Member andMinister of State
Chairman of the Board of
Directors of the National
Media Council
Member of the Expo Dubai 2020
Higher Committee

Chairman, Emaar Properties
PJSC
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

His Excellency Helal
Saeed Al MarriHis Excellency Khalifa
Al Zaffin

Director General, Dubai
Department of Tourism andCommerce Marketing (DTCM)
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

Executive Chairman, Dubai
Aviation City Corporation(DACC)
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

Her Excellency Reem
Ebrahim Al Hashimy
UAE Minister of State forInternational Cooperation
Director General, Expo 2020
Dubai Bureau

His Excellency Mattar
Mohammed Al Tayer
Chairman of the Board andExecutive Director, Roads andTransport Authority (RTA)
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

His Excellency Major
General Abdullah
Khalifa Al MarriCommander-in-Chiefof Dubai Police
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

His Excellency
Sheikh Sultan Bin
Tahnoon Al Nahyan
Member of the Abu Dhabi
Executive Council
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

His Excellency
Dawood Abdulrahman
Al Hajiri
Director General, Dubai
Municipality (DM)
Member of the Expo Dubai
2020 Higher Committee

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Expo 2020 team at the BIE
in Paris, France after Dubai
was awarded as the host
(November, 2013).

The Higher Committee established thefollowing Specialised Committees toensure efficiency and transparency
through the committees’ directsupervision on all funding, procurement
and contracting processes:
FINANCE AND BUDGET COMMITTEE
Responsible for the financial support ofExpo 2020 and supervising budgetingand the use of allocated funds
CONTRACTS AND TENDER COMMITTEE
Responsible for the supervision of
procurement and tendering processes
in relation to the work conducted for
Expo 2020 Dubai
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE
Responsible for ensuring that Expo 2020
governance is protected and respectedby departments

2.

The Bureau

The Bureau Expo 2020 Dubai is agovernment entity, acquiring its legal andfinancial jurisdiction and powers directlyfrom the Dubai Government. The Bureau
acts as the executive arm of the Higher
Committee, and holds the following
functions and powers:
	Supervising preparations for thedelivery of Expo 2020 Dubai

	Liaising with relevant government
entities to ensure the availability of
the right infrastructure for hosting
Expo 2020 Dubai (such as tourist
facilities, sanitary facilities and roadtransportation networks)
	Coordinating with the relevant
entities to ensure that Dubai will fulfil
and meet all requirements fromfacilities, equipment, financial, artistic,
media, security, economic andtourism resources to host the event	Coordinating with public andprivate entities, locally andinternationally, on all mattersrelated to Expo 2020 Dubai
	Advertising and marketing theevent (locally, regionally andinternationally) to ensure its success	Attracting local, regional,
international companies andentities to sponsor Dubai for
hosting Expo 2020
	Performing any other functions
and powers assigned to it by theHigher Committee
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy is the
Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai
and a member of the Higher Committee.
She therefore acts as the primary conduit
for reporting on the progress of the
Bureau and its subsidiaries at Higher
Committee meetings.

3.

The Company

In order to assist with the operationaldelivery and hosting of Expo 2020
Dubai, the Bureau incorporated Expo
Dubai 2020 LLC (the Company) in the
Department of Economic Developmentin 2015. It has now set up a Board of
Directors, Board Committees and amanagement governance structure tooversee, with the Director General, theoperational development of the Expoand support the timely reporting of
information through the Bureau to theHigher Committee.
Board membership is anticipated to be
for up to three years, subject to annual
review. The company maintains a Registerof Interests to identify any potential
conflicts of interest.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

4.

Governance Framework

An organisational structure and governance framework have been put in place to meet theinternational obligations accepted by the UAE in hosting Expo 2020 Dubai, as well as tofacilitate the efficient, transparent and successful delivery of the event.
Divisions

Departments

DGO

HIGHER COMMITTEEDG Office

EXB

Procument
Committee

Expo Bureau

FinanceCommittee

City ReadinessCommittee

PTL

ProtocolMMS
Moment Makers

SCY
Security

STB
Sustainability

PMO Portfolio

CSE

CMP

GVN Governance &PDM Portfolio Delivery PRM Portfolio Risk

Management Office

Company Secretariat

Compliance

ReportingManagement

STC Strategic
Communications

PRS

MED

MPA

Press OfficeMedia Operations

Media Partnerships

PRO

COS

SBI Strategy & Business PDY

SPRProgramming

Concession

Integration

Special Projects

EMI Emiratization

HRO Human Resources IET Internal Comms,
Operations

Engagement & Training

Volunteers

Workforce

OPF Operations

ACR

GSE

TTP Traffic, Transport

VMA Venue

Front of House

Accreditation

Guest Services

and Parking

Management

EDO Event Delivery
OfficeOPB Operations
Back of HouseCWM Cleaning &Waste Management

LOG Logistics &Storage

SMA

LLD

BSD

Site Management

Landlords OfficeBusiness Support

IPO International
Participants Operations

OSS

VIL

One Stop Shop

Expo Village

Management

CER
Ceremonies

CMS
Communications

EXL
Expo Live

Production & Delivery

IAD
Internal Audit

HRD HR, Workforce &Volunteers& Expo Academy

VOL

WKF

PRD
Procurement

IOO Integrated
Operations OfficePAR
LAR
Licensing & Retail

CFO

Deputy CEO

Partnerships

FNA
FinanceCON
Contracts

OPERATIONSDIVISION
CDDO

FOP
Fleet Operations

RED Site Development
and Delivery
OVL
Overlay

WWM

Key

CREAO

Worker Welfare

HSE Health, Safety &Pavilions Delivery

IBE International
Business Engagement

CIPO

Governance External

Chief Financial Officer
Division

Chief International
Participants Officer Division

Director General & Chief
Executive Officer Division

Operations Division

Chief Community
Engagement Division

Committee

Chief Development &Delivery Officer Division

Chief Technology Officer
Division

Deputy Chief Executive
Officer Division

Chief Real Estate &Assurance Officer Division

Chief Visitor Experience
Officer Division

Environment & Quality

PPD Participant

IPC IP Country
Management
NOP Int Org & NonOfficial Participants*Subject to Expo2020 Code Sets change control -IOO

CTO CCEOIPP IP Content &Programming
CEN Community
Engagement

IFT Innovation & Future API

CSR Cyber Security &

INC

VAR

IMT Immersive

Technology

Applied Intelligence

Resilience

Intelligent Connect

Value Realisation

Technology

SAM

MKT

DTM

TIK

ANL

RES

Sales & Marketing

MarketingDestination Marketing

TicketingAnalytics

Research

VEI Visitor Experience

SDI

TNL
The Narrative Lab

CVEO

DG & CEO

LEG
Legal

Integration

Site Design Integration

EXH

MPV

SPV

OPV

OBT

Exhibitions

Mobility Pavilion

Sustainability Pavilion

Opportunity Pavilion

Expo 360

LDI Legacy

D20

SCH Expo School

Development & Impact

District 2020

Programme

ART Arts & Culture
Projects

VEC Visitor Experience
City Integration27

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THE FOUNDATIONS OFA SUSTAINABLE EXPOABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

A. INTEGRATEi.

STAKEHOLDERS & MATERIALITY

1.

Stakeholder Mapping

Expo 2020 Dubai’s stakeholder mapping
exercise entailed a comprehensive
charting of relevant entities in the country.
This was benchmarked against previous
major events such as Milan Expo 2015
to ensure that precedent was met andif possible, exceeded. Stakeholders
were initially identified as per the ISO
20121:2012 framework, which outlines at aminimum the parties that are expected tobe affected by Expo 2020’s activities andservices, and reasonably affected by theorganisation’s strategies and objectives.
The final comprehensive stakeholder
categories cover all the essential recipientsof Expo 2020’s relevance. This includes
prominent governing bodies such as theBIE, UAE governmental organisation,and equally significant, Expo employees,
volunteers and visitors to the event.
Figure 6 shows the relevant stakeholders
to the 2018 report. Stakeholder categories
were adopted largely under the ISO
20121:2012 framework, however, workers’
trade union organisations were not

FIGURE 6 Stakeholder Categories
Expo 2020 Dubai LLC and its
employees
2 International Participants
3 Vendors and Suppliers
4 Local Community and Volunteers
5 Civil Society
6 C onstruction Consultants,
Contractors and Workers
7 Partners
8 Youth and Schools Programmes
9 G overnment Authorities andEntities1

included in the materiality exercise
because under UAE law expatriate
workers are directed to take recoursewith the Ministry of Labour for all workrelated grievances. Additionally, toprevent a complete exclusion of thiscategory, material topic discussions withinternal and external stakeholders were
designed to be inclusive of all levels of
employee interaction.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Stakeholder mapping began on 18 April
2018, which saw the heads of various
departments at Expo 2020 participating
in an awareness session hosted by the
Expo Sustainability Team. The purposeof the session was to ensure that all
departments were fully briefed on Expo’s
decision to produce a GRI Standard
Sustainability Report.
The session included:	The process of developing asustainability report	The details of GRI Standards
reporting	The meaning of ‘materiality’and ranking material topics
	How to identify stakeholders
and the importance of early
engagement	How different Expos havepresented their sustainability
reports	The information that will be
required from each department

2.

Stakeholder Engagement

In mid-2018, three stakeholder
materiality workshops were held for
Expo 2020 higher management staff,
employees and external stakeholders.
These sessions were designed toascertain the importance of theshortlisted economic, environmental
and social material topics whichaligned most with Expo 2020’s theme,
subthemes, values and strategic goals.
Material topics were selected taking
into account site selection, recruitment,
workforce training, supply procurement,
community impact management andaccessibility for people of determination.
Internal stakeholders comprised Exposenior management staff and all
employee representatives, including
work groups, volunteers and contractors.

FIGURE 7 External Stakeholders Who
Attended the Expo 2020 Materiality Workshop

FIGURE 8 Expo 2020 Internal
Stakeholder Departments

Department of Economic Development
D epartment of Tourism andCommerce Marketing
3 D ubai Airports
4 D ubai Government Media Office
5 D ubai Municipality
6 Dubai Police
7 M inistry of Climate Change and Environment
8 M inistry of Foreign Affairs
9 M inistry of Human Resources andEmiratisation
10 Roads and Transport Authority
11 Ministry of Food Security
12 F ederal Competitiveness and Statistics
Authority
13 Dubai Electricity and Water Authority
14 Siemens
15 PepsiCo
16 UPS
17 ENOC

BureauReal Estate and Delivery
3 Legacy Development and Impact
4 Visitor Experience
5 C ontent and Programming
6 Event Operations
7 E xpo Live

1

2

1

2

8

H ealth, Safety, Quality andEnvironment Assurance
9 Commercial and Partnerships
10 Sustainability
11 H uman Resources, Workforce
and Volunteers
12 D esign and Overlay
13 Business Support
14 Portfolio Management Office
15 Procurement

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

3.

Materiality

Participants in the workshops were asked
to rank the significance of the impactof each topic on a scale of 1–10, with
1 being ‘Not Significant’ and 10 being‘Very Significant’. The shortlisted topics
were chosen from the GRI-specificstandard disclosures and are shownin Table 1.

TABLE 1 Final Identified
Material Topics
GRI Standard
Number

Topic

302

Energy

303

Water

403

Occupational Healthand Safety

305

Emissions

306

Effluents and Waste

201

Economic Performance

301

Materials

307

Environmental 		Compliance

419

Socio-economic
Compliance

412

Human Rights Assessment

413

Local Community

308

Supplier Environmental
Assessment406

Non-discrimination

404

Training and Education

202

Market Presence

401

Employment

408

Child Labour

N/A

Innovation

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXii.

SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIPS

1.

Supply Chain

The Expo Higher Committee has a
specialised Contracts and Tender
Committee that is responsible forsupervising the procurement and tendering
process in relation to work undertaken for
Expo 2020 Dubai. The process is structured
and ratified through specific guidelines
which pertain to material selection andcarbon emissions abatement.
To positively impact construction industry
practices for the event and the region
as a whole, the Committee works with
contractors and suppliers to increase
their awareness around sustainability
issues and has embedded critical Key
Performance Indicators (KPIs) into theircontracts. The KPIs for Expo’s sustainableprocurement strategy are derived fromthe Expo Environmental Policy and theSustainable Materials Guideline and apply
to all contractors employed by Expo
2020, including third-party delivery
agents, developers and participants.
Due to the intense on-site construction
activity and planned decommissioningof structures, the sustainable material
selection for Expo 2020 Dubai requires
understanding and integration of multiple
material aspects (including recycledcontent, embedded carbon, regionalsourcing, and the selection of materials
that do not have a negative impact onindoor environmental quality). Additionally,
contractors must demonstrate compliancewith Expo 2020’s Sustainable Materials
Guidelines, as detailed in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Overview of Compliance Requirements for Key Materials
Product
STEEL

Certification

Submission requirement

World Steel Association Climate

CARES Sustainability Standard,

Action Programme (CAP)

BES 6001 or equivalent

 PD
E
Evidence of membership

membership
CONCRETE EPD to EN 15804
Certified to the WBCSD

and/or GGBSEPD
Certificate
Evidence of membershipForestry Stewardship Council

Programme for the Endorsement

Chain of Custody (CoC) certificate(FSC) certificationof Forest Certification (PEFC)

with codes or serial numbers

certification

Copy of certificate

BES 6001 certification
Crushed Concrete Aggregate

ACI 555R in conjunction with

Copy of certificate
Lab test results(CCA) in concrete productionReuse based on ASTM andconforms to BS 8500

AASHTO standards

Cement Sustainability InitiativeReplacement of Portland
Cement with Fly Ash, Silica Fume

Responsible Sourcing Scheme
TIMBER

AGGREGATE

corresponding ASTM standards

requirements
PVC

ECVM Industry Charter for theCertificate
Product data sheet

Production of VCM and PVC
ALL
MATERIALS

For suppliers with more than 250 employees:

BS EN ISO 14001 accreditation
EMAS accreditation
Employer Approved
Environmental
Management System

BS EN ISO 9001 accreditation
BS OHAS 18001 accreditation

Copy of certificate and/or
management system

Document demonstratingcompliance

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Material selection KPIs also aim for thefollowing minimum procurement targets:
Contractors must incorporate asustainability assessment into theirprocurement process for all materials
and products.
95 per cent of materials procured
must be in accordance with the Expo
Sustainable Materials Guideline.
Where possible, the contractor mustalso arrange with suppliers to take backpackaging of products delivered to site.
Diesel fuel used on-site must compriseat least 20 per cent biodiesel where
technically feasible.
Any changes to materials or products
recommended by the contractor mustalign with the overall sustainability goals
for the project, evidence of which must
be approved by the site engineer.

In 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai awarded a
total of 2,336 contracts, split between
81 strategic awards and 2,255 tacticalawards. Out of the total contracts,
1,277 were awarded to small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs). The significanceof contracts is defined based on the tierof the contract, the value it adds to theorganisation and potential associatedrisks. Contracts incorporate clauses
on worker welfare and human rights
as they are subject to worker welfare
assessments. In addition, all companies
that register on the Expo Online Market
Place are required to sign the Vendors’
Code of Conduct. Expo will continue toengage actively with local, regional andinternational businesses of all sizes inthe spirit of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating
the Future’.

In 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai awarded a total of 2,336 contracts,
split between 81 strategic awards and 2,255 tactical awards,
with 1,277 of the total contracts awarded to SMEs.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

2.

Expo Partnerships

Expo has developed a robust networkof partners who play a vital role indelivering a successful world-classevent and will support the event’s visitor
experience and its legacy.
Expo 2020 closed 2018 with a mix oflocal and international partners. Also in
2018, ‘Official Provider’ was added asa new partner category. At the heart ofExpo 2020 Dubai is a belief in the powerof connections. This belief drives thevision and strategy for nurturing smart,strong and sustainable partnerships
across cultures, organisations andgenerations. The organisers of Expo
2020 have deployed all the resources attheir disposal to attract a spectrum ofparticipants representing developed aswell as developing countries, multilateralorganisations, businesses from relevant
sectors and educational institutions.
Expo 2020 aims to be a universal Expo byincorporating a multitude of organisations
and leaders in research and development,
working together to address global
sustainability challenges by finding
practical solutions to real problems.
Their experience and expertise will help
bring the Expo subthemes to life, creating
tangible and exciting visitor experiences,and underlining Expo’s core vision of
innovation and global partnerships.
Expo 2020’s focus on innovation acrossdiverse perspectives will highlightcreative leadership, dynamism and awillingness to collaborate in order toovercome the challenges of dependence
and imbalance. It will forge a new image
and reputation, not only of individual
participants but also of Expo’s global
spirit of partnership: all participants willprofit from the opportunity to showcase
their vision and accomplishments to theglobal audience at Expo 2020, and gain
access to myriad sectors of the local andregional economy likely to enable their
future in the region.
Part of Expo 2020’s legacy will be
the boosting of Dubai’s supply chain
capabilities through the implementationof business-friendly legislation to
encourage foreign partnerships, andinvestment in local manufacturing andservice provision. This legacy will lie inthe partnerships and projects formed
during Expo that will continue to growand flourish past 2020.
Expo 2020 Dubai will contribute to
substantial GDP growth, generate
employment, and help strengthen
mutually beneficial partnerships.
The transition to the post-Expo stage(whether through the retention ofpavilion structures on the Expo site ortransport links to a different part of thecity, region or world) serves as a global
manifestation of the shared experiences,connections and partnerships that aredeveloping through Expo 2020.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Official Premier Partners for Expo 2020 Dubai

COMPANY NAME

EMIRATES AIRLINECOMPANY NAMEDP WORLDPARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Airline Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Premier Global
Trade Partner

Emirates will play a key role in bringing visitors to Expo.
Emirates will be a licensed ticket reseller and will use
its extensive route network of over 150 destinations to
support Expo marketing and communications. Emirates
will also offer hospitality services and support to Expoparticipants.

DP World is a leading enabler of global marine andinland trade. It owns and operates 77 terminals globally
including the Jebel Ali Port, less than 10km from theExpo site. DP World will play a vital role in the supply
chain for Expo, enabling the attendance of 192 nations.
As an active supporter of innovation and start-up
organisations, both locally and internationally, DP World
will complement various Expo 2020 initiatives.

COMPANY NAMEETISALATCOMPANY NAMEACCENTURE

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Telecommunications
Partner
Official Digital Service
Partner (jointly with Accenture)

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Digital Service
Partner (jointly with Etisalat)

Etisalat is the UAE’s leading international telecoms
and technology service provider. Etisalat will providesite connectivity and telecoms infrastructure enabling
Expo to offer its visitors and participants cutting edge,
immersive digital experiences that bring the Expothemes to life. Etisalat will also provide high-speed
Wi-Fi, capable of handling hundreds of thousands ofpeople on-site at peak times.

Working closely with Telecommunications Partner
Etisalat, Accenture will ensure world-class integrationof various ICT systems and innovative solutions to meetthe digital needs of visitors, organisers and participants.
Accenture will also design, build and run solutions inareas such as virtual assistance, business intelligence,
analytics, mobile applications and guest relations.

COMPANY NAMESAPCOMPANY NAMECISCOPARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Innovative
Enterprise Software Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Digital
Network Partner

SAP will co-innovate on real-time technology
platforms that enable organisers and exhibitors to
instantaneously analyse data and identify visitor
trends. These insights will help tailor each visitor’s
experience to their personal preferences. Expo isexpecting to run more than 20 real-time solutions
on the SAP HANA in-memory platform and the SAP
S/4HANA real-time business suite.

Cisco will provide secure connectivity through its
intent-based networking solution. Cisco® provides aninfrastructure that constantly learns, adapts and protects,
making it the ideal foundation for the complete digital
experience offered at Expo 2020. It will help enable
visitors, exhibitors and organisers to connect anywhere,
on any device – securely, reliably and seamlessly. Expo
2020 will also utilise the Cisco Vision™ signage solution
to help deliver information and experiences throughout
Expo in a way that enhances attendee engagement.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Official Premier Partners for Expo 2020 Dubai (Cont.)

COMPANY NAMEPEPSICOCOMPANY NAMEMASTERCARDPARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Beverage
and Snack Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Payment
Technology Partner

Expo and PepsiCo have joined forces with a sharedvision to work together towards a healthier and moresustainable future in the lead-up to, during and beyond
the World Expo in 2020. They will work together
to inspire and educate millions on areas of criticalimportance including water stewardship, sustainable
packaging, agriculture and nutrition. PepsiCo will
also bring its portfolio of brands, activation andentertainment expertise to the event.

The partnership includes developing innovative
payment solutions that help deliver a personalised,seamless and cashless experience for millions ofvisitors from around the world. Mastercard will offer
its innovative payment solutions, using technology
including augmented and virtual reality, and biometrics
such as facial and fingerprint recognition, as well
as new payment methods including contactlesstechnologies.

COMPANY NAMESIEMENSCOMPANY NAME

EMIRATES NBDPARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Infrastructure andDigitalisation Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Banking Partner

As one of the largest manufacturing and electronics
companies in the world, Siemens will provide a range ofinnovative solutions, technologies and products. These
include security and building management systems and
MindSphere, an open operating system for the Internetof Things, that will play a central role in the smart
operations of the Expo site. Siemens has also chosen the
Expo site as the future location of its global logistics HQ.

COMPANY NAMENISSANPARTNERSHIP TIER

Premier Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Automotive Partner

Nissan will provide the Expo fleet, including electricvehicles featuring advanced technologies. Expo willbe the first organisation in the Middle East to use the
Nissan Leaf for commercial purposes. Knowledge fromthe partnership will help accelerate the electrificationof mobility in the region. Nissan ‘intelligent mobility’technologies will be showcased during the event at
various points across the site.

Emirates NBD is the on-site banking partner for
Expo, providing ATM machines and an on-site ‘Bank of
the Future’ where the UAE-based banking group willoffer a variety of services to visitors, participants andorganisers, such as merchant account operations, Islamicbanking and foreign exchange services.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Official Partners

COMPANY NAMEUPSCOMPANY NAME

DEWA

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Logistics Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Sustainable
Energy Partner

As Official Logistics Partner, UPS will provide
thousands of square metres of warehouse space and ateam of 1,000 dedicated logistics personnel during thesix months of Expo 2020. UPS will draw from expertiseand experience gained as logistics partner of the 2012
Olympic Games in London and the 2008 Olympic
Games in Beijing.

DEWA is the Official Sustainability Partner for Expo
2020 and is working with Expo to deliver renewableenergy, electricity and water projects that minimise
the environmental impact of the event.

COMPANY NAMEEMAARCOMPANY NAMEDULSCOPARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Hotel and
Hospitality Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Waste
Management Partner

Emaar will provide truly authentic Emirati hospitality tovisitors and participants in their hotels and venues in thejourney to, during and beyond Expo 2020. During theevent, Emaar will operate one of the hotels, will manage
VIP hospitality and also provide catering services onsite. As part of the Expo Legacy, Emaar will operate two
hotels in District 2020.

Dulsco is tasked with helping Expo achieve the targetof diverting 85 per cent of waste from landfill. Dulsco’s
purpose-built Waste2Resource plant in Dubai South
will support Expo’s mission to reduce, reuse, recycle
and repurpose. This could involve recycling paper andcardboard to produce useful daily items or upcycling glass
and plastic to create sustainable Expo-branded mementos.

COMPANY NAMEENOC

COMPANY NAMECHRISTIE DIGITALPARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Integrated
Energy Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Displays andProjections Partner

ENOC is the Official Integrated Energy Partner of Expo.
ENOC will operate a number of its Zoom convenience
stores across the site. Part of ENOC’s focus will include
setting up a fully functioning, futuristic service station
during the six months of Expo which will serve theevent’s fleet vehicles. ENOC will also host a pavilionin Al Forsan area to engage visitors in immersive andinteractive experiences.

Christie, a global leader in displays and projectors, will
showcase Expo as the most sophisticated collectionof digital experiences in the world. Christie will partnerwith Expo with the aim of being the most advanced
and technologically memorable exposition ever. The
company will showcase its breakthrough laser projection
technology, including using more than 250 of its D4K40RGB projectors to create life-evolving scenes on Al Wasl
Plaza’s giant 130-metre-wide projection surface.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Official Providers

COMPANY NAMEDARKMATTERCOMPANY NAMEORIENT INSURANCE PJSC

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Provider

PARTNERSHIP TIER

Official Partner

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Cyber
Security Provider

CATEGORY/DESIGNATION

Official Insurance Provider

DarkMatter will protect the entire digital platform,
as well as the data and applications it supports.
The firm will provide a range of cutting-edge services
before, during and after Expo, including security
management, monitoring, risk assessment, incident
response and technical forensics. DarkMatter is a
UAE–headquartered cyber security firm that will help
safeguard the digital experience of millions of visitorsand more than 200 participants at Expo 2020.

Orient Insurance will provide property insurance for the
Expo site’s iconic architecture, plus liability coveragefor operations. It will also offer services to participants,
including businesses, multi-lateral organisations, nongovernment organisations, educational institutions and
192 nations.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

B. IMPACTi.

ECONOMIC

Expo 2020’s Economic Impact
Report defines three distinct phases,
covering both on-site and off-site
activities.
These are:
1 Pre-Expo: From Dubai’s winningbid in November 2013 to theofficial start of Expo 2020 in
October 20202 D uring Expo: From October
2020 until April 2021
3 Legacy: From May 2021 until
December 2031

The report focuses on the Pre-Expoconstruction phase, where economic
value for the event has been calculated
based on specific distribution factors(see Figure 9).
The activities pertaining to the economic
impact calculations for the Pre-Expophase include:
1 Construction: On-site, supporting
infrastructure, adjacent sites
2 Employment: Construction sector
3 P re-Expo Contribution

FIGURE 9 Expo Construction Impacts (Pre-Expo Phase): Calculation Method
Payments by
Expo 2020 forsite construction

Revenues tothe construction
sectorConstruction
companies
profits andsalaries

Direct GVA

Total cost
incurred in site
construction

Percentage of
local costs forconstruction
companies

UAE GVA sector
multipliers

Indirect andinduced GVA
impactConstruction activity is expected to drive
Expo-related activity during the PreExpo period.
This includes: O n-site activities, such as site
preparation, facilities and infrastructuredevelopment through investments by
the Expo 2020 organisers and otherinfrastructure providers, and on-site
investments. This also includes on-site
investment by participating countries
through their pavilions.
O ff-site activities, such as third-party
investment in activities, or investmentsthat have been brought forward as aresult of Expo 2020, with most of theactivities related to infrastructure
investments by the Roads andTransport Authority (RTA), Dubai
Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA),
Etisalat and Dubai Municipality (DM).

39

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFIGURE 10 Results of the Economic Impact Report for the Pre-Expo PhaseAll figures in AED

ESTIMATED GVATOP SECTORS BYTOTAL GVA*

37.7 BILLIONCONSTRUCTION

DIRECT

25.7 BILLIONTOTALGVA IMPACT
68% OF

8.0 BILLIONEVENTS ORGANISATION
AND BUSINESS SERVICES

7.0 BILLION

INDIRECT

20.6 BILLION

TRANSPORT, STORAGE
AND COMMUNICATION

2.2 BILLION*C overing the top three
impacted sectors

INDUCED

9.1 BILLION

An average

37,500262,400
FTE job years supported in the UAE

ii.

SOCIAL1.

Social Framework

FTE jobs supported
per year

27,600FTE construction
jobs

4.7

BILLIONon-site spending for
SMEs (20%)

Expo 2020 is actively engaging with awide range of stakeholder categories,
the largest of which will be the 25 million
visits that the event expects between
October 2020 and April 2021.

the Expo 2020 team developed an
integrated framework for its outreachand stakeholder engagement tasks thataligns with the event’s subthemes ofOpportunity, Mobility and Sustainability.

Since the bid phase, Expo 2020 Dubai
has pledged to create a positive social
impact on its stakeholders, undertaking
local and regional community-building
exercises alongside its efforts to host a
successful event with an enduring legacy.
As part of its commitment to the BIE,

Three key stakeholders play a role in thiscommunity building assignment:
	
SMEs
	
Local youth	
Volunteers

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

2.

Initiatives

SMEs
According to the Dubai Department of
Economic Development (DED), SMEs:
	Account for 95 per cent of thetotal enterprises in Dubai	E mploy around 42 per cent of
Dubai’s workforce	Contribute 40 per cent of thetotal value added in Dubai
In line with government policy, anddriven by a strong belief in the powerof entrepreneurship in creating newopportunities for economic development
and social inclusion, Expo 2020 has
developed a robust SME engagement
framework to harness the entrepreneurial
mind-set of the region. An ongoingcommitment to the BIE, this also ensuresthat the distribution of the benefits ofhosting the event are socially sustainable.
An integral part of this framework is a
stipulation within all contracts awarded
worth AED 125 million and above,

whereby contractors must commit toprocuring goods and/or services worth
20 per cent of the awarded contract
value from SMEs, throughout the
duration of their contract with Expo.
This procurement can relate to either
requirements on Expo projects or onother non-Expo projects in which the
supplier is presently engaged.
2018 also saw Expo continuing tocultivate strong ties and a meaningful
dialogue with the local and international
business communities, so as to optimise
the involvement and impact of theprivate sector on the event. In 2018,
the Expo Roadshow team attended
18 different roadshows and events, aswell as travelling across the world tocountries including the UK, Germany,
Italy, USA, Japan, China and India, todiscuss the unique commercial
opportunities of Expo 2020 with key
government and business entities.

“Through these sessions we are delivering value to SMEs byencouraging networking and providing them with a platform
to connect with each other, therefore boosting opportunities
across the region, before, during and after Expo.”
MANAL ALBAYAT, CHIEF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OFFICER,EXPO 2020 DUBAI

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

The Expo School Programme

A key component of Expo 2020 Dubai is the Expo School Programme. Schools
are integral to the success and legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai, with the schoolcommunity playing an essential role in bringing excitement and momentum
to this historic event. Featuring its own dedicated team, the Expo School
Programme is collaborating with educators and students across the UAE,
offering interactive, meaningful and age-appropriate educational experiences
to inspire and engage with the youth of the UAE, inviting them to explore, create,
and learn in a fun and immersive environment before and during the event.
As of December 2018, the team has reached out to more than 700 schools,
connecting with more than 50,000 students.
Expo 2020’s Visitor Centre is a dedicated space for schools and students
to explore and engage with Expo 2020’s theme and subthemes, as well as
exploring the global impact of past Expos. Visits to the centre are followed
by four unique, hands-on workshops that are inspired by the Expo subthemes
and enable students to discover ideas that will shape the future. For the
Sustainability subtheme, for example, students are taken on a fun journey
to discover the beauty of the Arabian Gulf’s coral reefs and their fragile
ecosystems.
The Expo School Programme’s teamalso provides teachers with the tools
necessary to prepare their students
for the world ahead. More than 50
Expo-related learning resources
have been developed, offering
students a fresh perspective on theplanet and suggesting ways in whichhumankind can pursue progress
while respecting the environment
and living in harmony with the restof the world.

“From our earliest days of planning for Expo, we were
determined to put our youth at the heart of our plans.”
HE REEM AL HASHIMY, UAE MINISTER OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION AND DIRECTOR GENERAL, EXPO 2020 DUBAI

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Expo Live
Launched in January 2017, Expo Live is the Innovation and Partnership
Programme of Expo 2020, which funds, accelerates and promotes creative
solutions from start-ups, SMEs, non-profit organisations and social
enterprises from across the world. The programme focuses on innovations
from ‘unconventional’ markets, which can promise the potential to improve
lives while also preserving the planet.
Expo Live will demonstrate how innovations that come from all places andpeople can advance the pace of progress and inspire a more inclusive andprosperous future. The programme also supports social entrepreneurs working
to solve social, environmental and/or humanitarian problems.
In 2016, Expo Live launched the global Innovation Impact Grant Programme,
offering grants of up to USD 100,000 for small organisations, start-ups andsocial enterprises to fuel and capacitate their innovative projects as part oftheir journey to scale.

MAP Expo Live Global Innovators by December 2018

SwedenFinland

NorwayRussiaLatviaDenmark
UK
Belarus
Ireland Netherlands
Germany
SerbiaFranceSlovenia

Canada
USA

Italy

Haiti

China
Cyprus
JordanEgypt

MoroccoKSA

St Kitts& NevisBahrain
UAE

Pakistan

Nepal
Bangladesh

India

Guyana Grenada

Thailand

Cape Verde
Nigeria

Kenya
Tanzania

BrazilPhilippines

Ethiopia

Ghana

Colombia
Ecuador

Chile

Afghanistan

Indonesia

ZambiaSouth Africa

Argentina

Innovation can come fromanywhere, to everyone
ORIGIN OF INNOVATIONIMPACT OF INNOVATION

43ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Expo Live (cont.)

6,900

APPLICATIONS FROM174

COUNTRIES

70

GLOBAL INNOVATORS
FROM

42

COUNTRIES

Between January 2017 and December 2018, Expo Live:
Conducted four rounds of calls for proposals, receiving more than
6,900 applications from 174 countries.
Confirmed 70 grantees (Expo Live Global Innovators) from 42
countries, with projects that had a direct impact within theircommunities. Sectors included, but were not limited to: water,
healthcare, energy, employment, health, agriculture and employment.
Hosted the first Expo Live Global Innovator Summit in Dubai in
October 2018. The event connected the government sector with
global innovators, incubators, Expo partners and others, to connect,
share, learn and inspire.
Awarded grants to 47 student teams from 19 universities from acrossthe UAE, as part of the University Innovation Programme. In November
2018, 28 teams from 16 universities were awarded grants.

Expo Live Innovation Impact Grant Programme Recipients
Mobicure
A Nigerian tech start-up thatprovides maternal, pre-natal,
antenatal and childcare services
to women in Benin City andacross Nigeria.

F123

Desert Control ME

A Brazilian social enterprisethat has developed innovative,
low-cost computer softwarethat enables visually impaired
individuals to have access toequal opportunities.

A Norway-based start-up piloting theirwater-saving technology in the UAE. The
solution is a patented liquid nanoclay thatconverts dry, sandy soils into arable, fertile
land using just a fraction of the water usuallyneeded for irrigation.

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Accessibility and Inclusivity
In the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People with Special Needs, people
with special needs or disabilities are referred to as ‘People of Determination’.
The key principles of accessibility include equity, dignity, functionality andindependence, which should be applied through every stage of a development,
including concept, build, design and operations.
Inclusion and accessibility are an integral part of Expo 2020 Dubai, and arealigned with the Dubai leadership’s vision to ensure that public buildings
and city-wide facilities are accessible for people of determination by 2020.
Expo’s infrastructure design means that visitors will be able to physically accessand experience the event; its operations will offer all visitors a truly seamlessexperience; and its legacy will ensure that Expo 2020 Dubai has created not
only an environment that can be used and enjoyed by as many people aspossible beyond the Expo event, but also a culture of understanding andacceptance. Inclusion and accessibility focus on the needs of all audience
segments of Expo 2020 – including, but not limited to, people of determination.
To deliver a true ‘Expo for Everyone’, Expo 2020 Dubai will deliver experiences
for all, irrespective of age or physical, sensory and/or psychological challenges.
The event will demonstrate the power in bringing together people with different
capabilities, to harness ideas, generate innovations and demonstrate bestpractices. The same values are expected of Expo partners, as a consideration whendeveloping content and experiences, as well as during the construction phase.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Accessibility and Inclusivity (cont.)

PHYSICALIMPAIRMENTVISUAL
IMPAIRMENTHEARING
IMPAIRMENTINTELLECTUALIMPAIRMENTPEOPLE OF DETERMINATIONFAMILIES

ELDERLY

TEMPORARYINJURIESEXPECTANTMOTHER

FATIGUEDPEOPLE WITH ACCESSIBLE NEEDS

A key aspect of Expo 2020’s inclusive and accessible vision is that peopleof determination, older adults, people with fatigue or short-term injuries orillnesses, and families will be recognised as having a need for accessibility.
To ensure that a comparable experience is delivered to all visitors, it is essential
to understand their needs, which begins from within the organisation.
In July 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai employees participated in a week-long inclusive
experience. Those who volunteered were asked to ‘live with a determination’for a day in order to gain a better understanding of inclusivity ahead of Expo.
For the initiative, 79 employees underwent 89 different experiences, whichranged from one to 10 hours, during which they used a selection of accessibility
devices to mimic permanent and temporary physical impairments. This included
wheelchairs and crutches, earplugs to replicate hearing impairments, glasses tosimulate different types of visual impairment, and special gloves designed todemonstrate the effects of arthritis in the wrists.
The experiment aimed to enable the Expo 2020 team to develop a better
understanding of accessibility in order to provide an environment and services
that will cater to everyone’s needs. Additionally, the experience highlighted theimportance of understanding people’s needs and being mindful of their abilities.
As the event gears up to attract an estimated 25 million visits in its six-month
duration, the Expo team must be ready to welcome all visitors, regardless of
their abilities.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDYInternational ParticipantsMeeting (IPM) 2018
Held annually, the third International Participants Meeting (IPM) took place
on 26 and 27 November 2018. The two-day event brought more than 600
participating international representatives to Dubai to receive information
and updates on the delivery and progress of Expo 2020 Dubai.
During the IPM, there were five plenary presentations, five information sessions
and a site tour. The presentations varied in scope, while the remarkabledevelopment of the Expo site and ‘Site Readiness and Progress’ session
demonstrated that Phase 1 of the infrastructure programme was complete.
Drone footage of each facility highlighted the successful delivery of the various
infrastructure elements.
International participants were taken through the process of preparing for
Expo 2020 Dubai – and how the Expo team can help and support participants atevery step. The IPM also examined how the Expo is capturing a global audience,and the ways in which participant partners are being promoted to the world.
The IPM underlined how content and programming are critical to the Expo’s
success, and the need for international participants to engage and inspire inorder to achieve this. Audience
members at the event wereencouraged to come forward anddevelop their theme statements toturn vision into reality. The event
also marketed the live launch of theExpo 2020 Dubai Calendar Booking
system, and its availability via theParticipant Portal.

The IPM examined how
Expo is capturing a global
audience and the ways inwhich participant partners
are promoted to the world.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

IPM (cont.)
The 2018 IPM saw the launch of Expo 2020 Dubai’s Global Best Practice Programme,
an international call for people to gather and highlight established initiatives that
could be amended, replicated and scaled to cultivate a worldwide impact.
The Expo team addressed a range of participant queries through a series ofdedicated information sessions, advising delegates on how to make significant
progress towards the Expo 2020 launch, and outlining the ways in which Expo willoffer them support throughout the lead-up to the event, and during the six monthsof Expo itself. The Real Estate and Delivery team used these information sessions to
identify key considerations for planning the development of participant pavilions, aswell as requirements for design and construction approvals.
On the final afternoon of IPM 2018, more than 350 representatives were invited
to join an extensive site tour of Expo 2020 Dubai. Delegates were granted a rareopportunity to view up-close
the progress that was being
made in the delivery of theExpo 2020 site.
(Right to left) His Highness Sheikh Ahmed
Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of theExpo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee; His
Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs
and International Cooperation; Vicente
Gonzalez Loscertales, Secretary Generalof the Bureau International desExpositions (BIE); Her Excellency Reem Al
Hashimy, UAE Minister of State forInternational Cooperation and Director
General of Expo 2020 Dubai.

The Launch of Al Wasl Opera(Left to right): Dr. Hayat Shamsuddin, VicePresident of Arts and Culture in Expo 2020 Dubai;
Mohammed Fairouz, the Composer; Maha
Gargash, the Librettist.

At IPM 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai unveiled a new,landmark contribution to the cultural impact – andlegacy – of Expo. Commissioned by Expo, Al Wasl
is a brand new opera that that will stage its world
premiere in Dubai in 2020, before a global tour.
Performed in Arabic and English, it tells an Emirati
story through a narrative that spans centuries.
The opera will celebrate the UAE’s rich cultural
heritage, its achievements in the half-century
since the country was founded, and its aspirations
for the future. It will feature the talents of morethan 100 artists and musicians, and a production
team of more than 70 professionals.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDYWorld Majlis
The World Majlis is Expo 2020’s signature platform for ‘Connecting Minds’.
It is an original format for open, informed and measured conversations between
diverse thought leaders, visionaries and change-makers along with brightuniversity students. Its objective is to generate new perspectives and incubate
meaningful connections between people and new ideas.
The World Majlis is both a physical and digital space for connected
conversations on some of the most important topics of today that can benefit
from greater depth of understanding and dialogue.

“The conversation thatflourished at the World Majlis
demonstrates the potential ofwhat we can achieve when webring our differences together
for a common goal. In this sense,
the World Majlis is pushing theboundaries of what a World
Expo can be: a driver for positivechange, not only for the six
months of the Expo itself, but
throughout our journey to 2020and beyond.”
HE REEM AL HASHIMY, UAE MINISTEROF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION AND DIRECTOR
GENERAL, EXPO 2020 DUBAI

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDYWorld Majlis (cont.)
World Majlis Format
The World Majlis is uniquely diverse and inclusive, welcoming voices acrosscultures, sectors and generations committed to creating a better future.
The World Majlis takes place in culturally significant locations, both local andinternational. It provides an intimate setting, emphasising the importance ofall participants facing each other, and enabling connected conversations.
Each Majlis brings together 10 to 15 globally recognised thought leaders to
explore a topic of great significance for humanity connected to the Expo themes
and subthemes. The goal is to collectively inform the Expo’s roadmap towards
2020 while shaping a rich programme of global conversations during the six
months of Expo, leading to a meaningful legacy. Each session is hosted by asenior leader that is personally and professionally committed to the specificWorld Majlis theme. Everybody participates on an equal footing, offeringexpertise, ideas and views.

The following topics were discussed in the World Majlis in 2018
12 FEB 201814 NOV 2018

Aligning Clock Speed Transformation inTechnology, Society and Government
Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
If the pendulums of technology, governmentand society swing at different speeds, will
we find solutions and alignment only byadjusting clock speed?

Next Gen World Majlis CityZen 2020:
Generation Z and the Future of Cities
Visitor Centre, Dubai, UAE
A conversation on opportunities andchallenges of the future city with a focus
on the new ideas that can help create
better cities and happier, stronger andmore sustainable communities for ourcommon future.

14 MAY 2018

Sustainability Through New Eyes
Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi, UAE
How can we draw from traditional values aswell as current thinking on sustainability tocreate a meaningful impact for Expo 2020?

23 SEPT 201814 DEC 2018

8 Billion Possibilities
New Museum, New York, US
In a world headed towards 8 billion people
sharing a common sky, how can the powerof innovation and the human spirit enable
more people to create their own future?

Cities, Futures, ChangeWorld Expos
as Experiments in Mega-change
World Expo Museum, Shanghai, China
How can Expos shape the future of urban
living and influence the long-term
development of host cities and beyond?

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iii. ENVIRONMENTAL
Management Approach
Expo 2020 Dubai embodies the principles
of sustainable development, respecting
ecological limits and natural resource
constraints; encouraging prosperity andwell-being while optimising conditions
for human development. It also lays thefoundations of a sustainable legacy for
future generations.
Expo 2020’s environmental strategy aims
to develop and implement innovative
solutions and also redefine environmental
excellence in programme delivery. Thisis being achieved through a proactive,
collaborative culture of environmental
oversight that flows directly from thehighest levels of management down toeach individual employee.
Towards this end, an Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) took place in2014 before the commencement of any
construction work to ensure that it
would not cause a negative impact.
The Expo 2020 Health, Safety,
Environment and Quality (HSQE) Policy
was also updated in 2018 and it outlines
the minimum standards applicable tothird-party delivery agents, developers,
participants, consultants and contractors.
The policy ensures sound environmental

By embracing a proactive,
collaborative andinnovative approach to
Expo 2020, the mandate
to protect and sustain theenvironment is embedded
into the event’s DNA.
management for all activities, compliancewith applicable environmental laws
and regulations, and managementof environmental risks on the
Expo 2020 Programme.
All suppliers operating on the
Expo 2020 Dubai site undergo
environmental screening according
to the requirements specified in theEnvironmental Assurance Standards
and the Construction Environmental
Management Plan (CEMP). The CEMP
is a site-wide and site-specific overallplan tailored to ensure that appropriate
environmental management practices
are adopted and implemented throughout
the construction phase of the Expo 2020
Dubai Programme, in response to theenvironmental impacts identified in thepreviously performed EIA study and inaccordance with the applicable regulatoryenvironmental technical guidelines.
The policy requires the implementationof practices and procedures that fostera culture of environmental awarenessand care. It works on the premise thatevery individual has a duty to takereasonable care of the environment,
themselves and those around them.
In addition to the Expo 2020 HSQE
Policy, the Expo 2020 Sustainability
Policy builds upon the Sustainability
Strategy, setting out the methodology
by which sustainability is integrated
into the planning, design, construction
and operational processes of the event.
The Expo Sustainability Strategy is an
essential framework for a programmewide, integrated approach tosustainability for the key areas.

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Materials

Sustainability

Awareness
ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS
OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

1.

Climate Change

Climate change presents significant
environmental, social and economic
risks that will substantially increase in
the cost of sustaining life on the planet,
as well as posing an existential threat
Climate change to humanity as extreme weather
patterns grow in frequency andmagnitude across the globe.

Physicaldevelopment

Humankind must harness its collective
ingenuity, innovation and technologicalcapacity to drastically reduce future
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to
avoid the worst consequences ofclimate change. Governments aroundthe world are implementing policies to
Political/Reputational
reduce GHG emissions
from all sectors
developmentof development, but individual behaviourchange is also necessary.
Expo 2020 Dubai presents a unique
opportunity to inspire millions ofindividuals to join the fight against
climate change. By reducing or
offsetting the footprint of the eventto the greatest extent possible, andby promoting innovation andcollaboration, Expo hopes to workwith other organisations and individuals
to better manage their own GHG
footprint in the future. Expo’s carbon
management strategy is aligned with
the international and local strategies
and accords in the following table.

TABLE 3 Expo 2020 Alignment with Internationaland Local Strategies and Accords
Kyoto Protocol
Ratified by the UAE in 2005. Expo 2020 is in line with
the UAE’s goals of monitoring, tracking and reducing
GHG emissions.

UAE Vision 2021 & National Agenda
Expo 2020 is fully aligned with the National Agenda’s
KPI for a sustainable environment and infrastructure.

Dubai Clean Energy Strategy & Demand SideManagement Strategy
Expo 2020 has designed renewable energy systems withinpermanent buildings on site that will provide renewableenergy during and after the event and contribute to Dubai’s
seven per cent clean generated energy target for 2020.

Carbon Abatement Strategy 2021
Dubai is targeting a 16 per cent reduction to GHG footprint
by 2021. Expo supports this goal and will take all feasible
measures to reduce its own GHG footprint.

Dubai Plan 2021
Dubai Plan 2021’s vision of a sustainable city includes
reduced CO 2 emissions per GDP.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCARBON
Expo 2020 Dubai has developed amulti-year GHG Emissions Inventory
to assess the event’s total impact.
For the purposes of this report, Expo2020’s carbon management team haveidentified the emissions accountablein 2018 to be consistent with the databoundaries for the majority of GRI
Standards in this report. Because of

the unique characteristics of a global
event, Expo is not using the corporate
accounting categorisation of emissions
into Scopes 1, 2 and 3. Instead, theanalysis captures all impacts that area consequence of the Expo without
attempting to differentiate thoseemissions based on ownership and control
which is typical of an inventory following
the corporate accounting standard.

BAU Expo
CarbonFootprintBAU Expo
Total
EmissionsBaseline
Total
EmissionsSustainable
Expo Carbon
Footprint

Sustainable
Expo Total
EmissionsBaseline
Total
Emissions

SCENARIOCHANGE IN GHG EMISSIONSGHG EMISSIONSFIGURE 11 Expo Business As Usual (BAU) Emissions
VS Sustainable Expo Emissions

BAU Expo
Total
EmissionsSustainable
Expo Total
Emissions

SCENARIO

In order to quantify the estimated total past and future GHG footprint of theExpo, as well as the GHG reductions achieved through progressive management,
estimates have been prepared for two scenarios:BAU Expo Carbon Footprint
A scenario where typical design,
construction and operations
would occur without sustainability
management efforts such as
minimising energy use andconstruction materials, and othersustainability programmes.

The Expo carbon management team has
analysed the two scenarios in detail andhas quantified all past and future GHG
emissions caused by the event, including
those such as air travel that may beemitted from sources owned by others
and outside the physical boundary of theevent. Comparison of the two scenarios
yields the GHG reductions attributable to

Sustainable Expo Carbon Footprint
The actual scenario where Expo’s
sustainability commitments are
considered. Estimated GHG emission
increases from sources of concern
with preparations for and hostingof the Expo under the umbrella of aworld-class energy and sustainability
programme, which is underpinned bya range of mandatory sustainability
requirements and standards such as
CEEQUAL and LEED.

Expo’s sustainability programme.
Based on these impact assessments,
it is estimated that approximately 7 percent of Expo 2020 Dubai’s 2018 carbon
footprint was reduced through the
Sustainable Expo scenario, comparedto the BAU scenario – a reductionof 44,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide
equivalent (CO 2e).

53

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Expo 2020 Dubai’s GHG Inventory includes all GHGs identified in the Kyoto
Protocol. However, greater than 99 per cent of the Expo GHG footprint is carbon
dioxide, and emissions of all other gases caused by the event are negligible:

O

C

O

H
H

H

C
H

O

F
F

F

N

F

F

F

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Commonly used as refrigerants for comfort cooling and foodstorage systems, with inadvertent leakage or venting causing a
GHG impact. While they are expected to be a minor component of
the overall Expo carbon footprint, fugitive emissions from leaking
refrigerants are included in the inventory for completeness.

FC C C
H

F

F
F

F
S

F

F
F

N itrous Oxide (N 2O)
These emissions also come from a wide variety of sources including
fertiliser production and other industrial processes. For Expo,
by-products of fuel combustion will cause minor emissions of N2O.

F

F

H

F

M ethane (CH 4)
These emissions come from a wide variety of sources including oil
and gas operations, livestock management and anaerobic biomass
decomposition. For Expo, by-products of fuel combustion andoff-site management of wastewater and solid waste will cause
minor emissions of CH 4.

Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
Primarily a by-product of various industrial processes. No
potential sources were identified at Expo in 2018, nor are they
expected during Expo’s operational phase.

F

C C CFFN

C arbon Dioxide (CO 2)
The most significant GHG for global anthropogenic impacts aswell as Expo 2020 emissions. Expo’s emissions result from fuelcombustion in mobile sources (such as on-site construction
equipment) and aircraft for international flights, the indirect impacts
of consumption of electricity generated by other parties, and theindirect energy- and process-related emissions from the production
and transportation of construction materials.

S ulphur Hexafluoride (SF 6)
Used in high voltage electrical equipment, particularly inswitchyards. No requirements for equipment containing SF 6
has been identified to date for Expo.

REPORTING STANDARDS AND METHODOLOGIES
protocols to develop GHG inventories,
Expo 2020 Dubai developed a GHG
however none are a perfect fit forInventory Management Plan to formaliseassessing events of a limited duration
the technical and policy decisions
regarding the identification of the event’s that involve GHG emission sources owned
and controlled by others, such as those
GHG emissions, as well as the relevant
at Expo. Some precedents exist, such as
standards to be followed, information
sources, calculation methodology, quality the carbon footprint assessments fromthe 2012 London Olympics, Milan Expoassurance procedures and other aspects
2015, 2020 Tokyo Olympics and 2010of the assessment.
South Africa FIFA World Cup™, but there
are substantial differences in approach
Several options already exist for the
between those references.
selection of reference standards or

54

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFIGURE 12 Standards and Protocols Considered for Expo 2020 Dubai orporate accounting standardsCfor estimating the overall GHG
emissions of a company or otherorganisation (e.g. sub-national
government entity), with emissions
typically expressed in terms of total
emissions per calendar or fiscal year.
P roject accounting standards
used to estimate the GHG impacts
of a discrete action, irrespective ofownership of the affected sources.
Currently, most standards are
expressly intended to estimate GHG
reductions resulting from an action
taken for mitigating GHG emissions.
However, most of the concepts fromthese protocols are also relevant toprojects that increase emissions.
P roduct life cycle standards used to
guide the estimation of overall GHG
impacts associated with production,
use and disposal of consumer orindustrial products. Results may
be expressed as ‘cradle-to-grave’,
meaning that all aspects of raw
material sourcing, manufacture,transportation, use and disposal or
recycling are considered. ‘Cradle-togate’ considers all aspects of sourcing
and manufacturing, but the analysis
ends when the product leaves the
production facility.
 cope 3 or ’Value Chain’ standards
S
analogous to the corporate standards,
in that they are primarily intended fororganisational GHG quantification,with results expressed in quantity of
GHGs per calendar year. In this case,however, the analysis is focused on theindirect impacts of the organisation’s
activities, instead of emissions fromsources owned or controlled by theorganisation, such as raw material
supply, employee commuting, businesstravel or outsourced operations.
 HG Protocol ‘Guidelines forG
Quantifying GHG Reductions from

Grid-Connected Electricity Projects’
offers a relatively unique basis for
estimating the potential benefits ofrenewable energy projects that areoutside the immediate boundaries ofExpo 2020.
 everal recent standards are relevantS
to the comprehensive evaluationof GHG impacts from infrastructure
construction and operations. These
include ‘Whole life carbon assessment
for the built environment’ fromthe Royal Institution of Chartered
Surveyors (RICS) in the United
Kingdom (UK), and ‘PAS 2080:2016
Carbon Management in Infrastructure’
from the British Standard Institution(BSI). While less formal or commonly
accepted than standards such as the
GHG Protocol, these are nonethelessvaluable for examination of the legacy
aspects of infrastructure development
for unique evaluations, such as for
Expo 2020.
 orld Resources Institute (WRI)W
recently developed its Policies andActions Accounting and ReportingStandard for analysis of policies
and programmes aimed at reducing
emissions. It also intended to provide
a framework for analysing largescale programmes which decrease
emissions. The key difference between
the Policies and Actions Standard andProject Accounting Standards is that
the Policies and Actions Standard isintended for large-scale programmesor policies. Examples include economywide fuel efficiency standards issued
by a national government, Nationally
Appropriate Mitigation Actions(NAMAs), and global, corporate
initiatives that have broad impacts
across economies, as opposed totemporally discrete actions of asingle project. This standard may
be informative of some Expo actions
that are expected to have a broad
influence on the nation’s development.

55

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFIGURE 13 Accounting Principles Overlap
GHG PROTOCOLPROJECT ACCOUNTING Fundamental basis

GHG PROTOCOLCORPORATE ACCOUNTING
Calculation approach:of the inventoryI mpacts from electricty

Compare Expouse & passenger travelemissions to baseline:

I ndependent ofownership aseline may be zeroBfor some aspects

PRODUCT LIFE CYCLEACCOUNTING ANDREPORTING STANDARD
 E
 mbodied carbon
in materials

BAU and reducedcases

E mission Factors (EF)from a gallon of diesel
 spects not used:A
Boundaries & Scope 1 2 3

INFRASTRUCTURE PROTOCOLS:
PAS 2080 AND RICS

RICS professional statement

RICS professional standards and guidance, UK

Scope

Whole life carbon
assessment for thebuilt environment
1st edition, November, 2017	 Which building materials
to account forLegacy use

rics.org/guidance	 How to account for
re-use of buildings
and infrastructure

Assessment of Expo 2020 Dubai’s
carbon footprint follows a typicalproject-based and policy-based
accounting approach. Within reason,
all sources and sinks of GHGs potentially
impacted by Expo have been identified,regardless of ownership or control byExpo 2020. For each source, Expo’s
impact is determined by comparing
the estimated emissions that will occur
with or without the event. As such, theestimated carbon footprint is the sumof net increases to each.
EMISSION BOUNDARIESThe Expo 2020 Dubai carbon footprint
will be measured using the boundary andbaseline assessment procedures of the
project’s protocols, and the calculation
methodologies of the corporate and life
cycle analysis standards.

CARBON REDUCTION MEASURES
To achieve Expo’s planned carbon
mitigation, Expo’s Carbon Management
Strategy includes a number of actions
to minimise the GHG emissions of thesources within the assessment boundary.
During 2018, a majority of Expo’s
carbon mitigation efforts focused on
the selection of construction materials,
such as concrete and steel, withlower embedded carbon, with further
reduction measurements planned for theoperations phase.

56

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

2.

Biodiversity & Ecology

Expo 2020 Overall Sustainability Targets
 E
 nsure Expo 2020’s development will enhance ecosystem

Ecology
BIODIVERSITY& ECOLOGY

management and the natural environment throughpreservation of existing resources and creation of new urban
and non-urban natural areas.

 Protect existing ecology both within and outside the project
area by maximising landscaping with native/adaptive species
and minimising the planting of invasive species.

 Ensure that 95 per cent of the landscape area is managedwithout the use of chemical pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers.

The Expo 2020 site is located in an arid
desert environment that has a unique
Sustainability and diverse ecology. From the outset,
the Expo team prepared for the potential
Awarenessthreat of climate change, overharvesting,invasive species, pollution and habitatchange resulting from the construction
and operational phases of the event.
For Expo 2020, the focus of this key
area of sustainability is to protect
existing ecology both within and outside
project areas, and to set requirementsthat enhance biodiversity and ecology.
Climate change
As a result, all development projects
that take place within the Expo 2020
site offer enhancements to ecosystemmanagement and the natural environment
through the preservation of existing
resources and the creation of new urban
and non-urban natural areas.
Expo 2020 has incorporated ecosystemmanagement and biodiversity strategies

Political/Reputational
development

into its sustainability management
programme, and recognises the intrinsic
economic, scientific and social valuesof preserving and enhancing thebiodiversity of species through habitat
protection and creation.
Expo’s project teams apply a systems
approach to understand and manage theextent of the project’s work in respect tothe various ecosystems, its surroundings
and natural connections beyond thesystems’ boundaries. This approach
involves the measurement, management
and mitigation of the adverse impactsof the event on the region’s ecologicalsystems, the restoration and creation of
habitat with a high ecological value andthe protection of natural water systems,
including groundwater.

57

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFIGURE 14 Implementing the Event-Wide Biodiversity Strategy for the Expo 2020 Site

ECOSYSTEM AND BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT APPROACH

Maximising protection of existing biodiversity
and habitats and engaging with regulatory
bodies and other stakeholders to minimise
desertification and degradation of habitat.

Using trees and plant covers/buffers toprotect the soil of existing and newlandscapes from sandstorms and otheradverse wind conditions contributing todesertification.

Engaging with regulatory bodies and otherstakeholders to control invasive species andgenetically modified organisms (GMOs) tolimit risks to local biodiversity.

Implementing a biological landscapemaintenance plan, including the use oforganic/biological soil amendments otherthan peat (this could include local soil
amendments, such as composted horse andcamel manure, coconut fibre and otheragricultural waste products suitable as soil
amendments), biological fertilisers, biologicalpest control, and the limited use of pesticides
that cause no harm to flora/fauna/humanhealth and have a short shelf life.

Minimising harm of vermin through pest
control activities.

Considering and including various landscape forms
and planting themes, including edible landscapesand perennials rather than seasonal landscapes.

Maximising potential for creating efficient anddiverse new habitats.

Engaging with regulatory bodies and otherstakeholders to support an understanding of
the importance of protecting biodiversity andurban ecology to minimise extinction risks ofthreatened species.

I mplementing an operations and maintenanceplan that considers local climate conditions thatreflect and include all the above listed items.

Implementing a high-quality tree service
programme (with trained personnel certified
by the International Society of Arboriculture)
to provide skilled and safe tree care, pruning
and trimming to protect the investment intrees as high-value habitat, as well as also
increasing the property value.

Conducting a water balance audit andimplementing a water efficiency programme
to address irrigation needs and develop
methods which minimise water loss throughevaporation; and the collection of irrigation
run-off to reduce overall water use.

58

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXSURVEYS AND ASSESSMENTS
An environmental impact assessment
was conducted at the Expo site in 2014.
Visual assessment of terrestrial ecology
has been carried out by the Expo 2020
team and site contractors since 2015 aspart of the daily tours and inspections.
Additional visual assessments werealso undertaken as part of quarterly
field monitoring works. For the reporting
period, sightings of local fauna andrelevant actions taken were detailed in theEnvironmental Performance Report (EPR).

Expo 2020 recognises
the intrinsic economic,
scientific and social valuesof preserving and enhancing
the biodiversity of species.

FLORA
From the surveys, the report concluded
that the project site supports limited floraand resident fauna, and the majority of
the remaining trees and shrubs are foundto be neither native nor in a healthy state(due to lack of irrigation). These existingfloral species are not to be considered
as a potential asset or plant stock forthe event, however such species may be
included in the planting palette for the
programme’s landscape design.

A noteworthy observation during thisreporting period was the discovery of abee swarm under a pile of steel rebar in
the Sustainability Pavilion project site.
The bees were removed with the supportof the UAE Beekeepers Association,
adopted by Expo 2020’s Sustainability
Team and relocated to a beehive within
Sustainable City, Dubai.

A few contractors reported therelocation of existing trees fromconstruction areas to other locations
within the event’s site boundaries toensure their preservation. As part of theplantation campaign, contractors havealso used ghaf trees and other nativeplants for on-site plantations.
FAUNA
In addition to other relocation activities
that have taken place in previous years,
a reptile and small mammal relocation
survey was undertaken in April 2018
in the area immediately adjacent to
Highway E611, which was undergoingthe initial earth moving activities
associated with the development of theExpo site. The survey followed an initialsite visit in February 2018, during which
the presence of several species of fauna
were identified.

A number of animals were observed
and/or captured during the 2018 reptile
and small mammal relocation survey,
including leverets (baby Arabian Hares)
and a hooded Malpolon snake. These
were released into suitable receptor
locations by an approved consultant.
Due to the danger posed by theconstruction work, two leverets wererelocated to Dubai Safari. At all times,
the Expo Site Delivery Team consulted
with the Dubai Municipality to ensure
proper handling of fauna. All captured
species were classified as either ‘Least
Concern’ or have not been classified
under the conservation classification of
the International Union for Conservationof Nature (IUCN) Red List andEnvironment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD).

59

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Fauna Relocation: The Arabian Hare
As part of Expo’s ongoing flora and fauna relocation efforts, in 2018 twoleverets (baby Arabian Hares) were found within the Expo site boundary during
the loading of material from an existing stockpile.
In spite of the location being well within the Expo site, the field team believe thatthe mother hare had found the area suitable for leaving her young unattended,as the stockpile had been in situ for some time.
Following the discovery of the leverets, the field team immediately protected
the animals from harm ahead of the relocation. The Expo HSQE teamcoordinated with the Dubai Municipality to transport the leverets to safety at
Dubai Safari, while the project team conducted further surveys of the vicinity
to identify other wildlife in the area. None was found.

Protecting biodiversity by ensuring that no fauna andflora are harmed on or around the Expo site is a key
sustainability commitment for Expo 2020.

Post-relocation Recommendations
After the leverets were relocated, the Expoteam made several recommendations tooperators to protect native species: aise awareness among operators to conductRvisual checks of the site for flora and fauna,particularly around stockpiles or undisturbed
ground.
I f wildlife is discovered, take the following
actions:		Leave the animals and habitat undisturbed(use a barricade or protection, if necessary )		Record the wildlife’s location, and informthe Expo HSQE team as soon as possible		Expo 2020 will coordinate with therelevant authorities to organise any
further action

60

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

3.

EnergyWaste

EnergyEfficient energy use and sustainableenergy production are key aspects ofExpo’s overall energy strategy and include
baseline energy use, building form anddesign, energy-efficient technologies
Public Realmand systems, efficientenergy supply
and renewable energy generation bothon-site and off-site. The objective of
the programme-level energy strategy
is to ensure cost effective solutions
with a clear use in the Legacy phase
based on a viable business case.
Passive design solutions were prioritised,
implemented and maximised prior to
selection of appropriate‘active’ industry
Materials
standard solutions, integrated with
innovative technological solutions.
This approach will result in costeffective environmental outcomes thatare realised through comprehensive
energy savings.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Ecology

Sustainability
Awareness

ENERGY CONSUMPTION

amount of fuel on-site.

Sustainable Events The installation
Environment
Climate change
All other contractors
During 2018, Expoof onOperations andconsume smaller
did not purchase anysite renewable energy
Management

Socialdevelopment

percentages of fuel,electricity: all Expo
will offset some of theso are not included insite offices and theoperational energy
these calculations.
masterplan site area
demands during theremained off-grid andevent. All permanent
ENERGY REDUCTION
were powered entirely
buildings within the
The modelling forby diesel- and biodieselmain Expo site haveenergy reduction on
run generators as therenewable energysite is in the construction the Expo site wassystems to support
calculated following
phase. SeePolitical/Reputational
Table 4 for athe on-site generation
Physicalthe methodology
development
development
breakdown of fuelusedof renewableenergyand criteria of thein 2018 and the amountsources. The off-site
international standardsof energy generated
renewable energy
ASHRAE 90.1 forand consumed on-site.
targets are also a mainbuilding efficiency.
This shows the total
aspect of the energy
fuel used for the sevenstrategy, throughmain contractors thatengaging with theconsume the highest
schools communityand collaborating withpartners and external
stakeholders to place
Based on modelled energy
renewable energy
usage, Expo was able tosystems beyond the
reduce site-wide energy
Expo site and contributeconsumption by
to national renewableenergy strategies.

47.3%

61

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXTABLE 4 Total Energy Consumption and Generation Jan-Dec 2018
Type of Fuel

Overall
Consumption(Litres)

Fuel Consumption Generator
by Generators
Consumption to(Litres)
Fuel Consumption

DIESEL		11,707,761		
PETROL		262,450		

Energy Generated
On-site (kWh)2,868,402		 24.5 per cent		 4,958,534
0		 0.0 per cent		0

BIODIESEL		5,703,775		

3,365,227		 59.0 per cent		

TOTAL		17,673,986		

6,233,629		 35.3 per cent		5,486,039

527,505

FIGURE 15 Energy Reduction Design Process
INPUT
Project-level KPI Target
Design intent

PROCESS
Identification of key design
measures and systems that coulddeliver targets

INPUT
Passive design measures
Active design measures
Technological solutions
Renewable energy solutions

PROCESS
Energy modelling to demonstratecompliance with KPIs

INPUT
Passive design building performance
Energy efficient systems technologies
Cooling strategy
Renewable energy technologies

PROCESS
Complete energy systems
verification and selection

INPUT
Energy model outputs
Energy reportProgramme Management Consultant(PMC) agreement to proceed

PROCESS
Material Procurement, Installation
and Documentation withinsustainability reporting62

Transport

EnergyPublic Realm

Ecology

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

4.

63

Water

Expo 2020 Overall Sustainability Targets
 R educe water consumption in Expo 2020 buildings with 40 per
regulatory baseline provided byWastecent improvement above theMaterials
Sustainability
the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
Awareness

Water I nstall smart controls on 100 per cent of publicly accessible
water fixtures and fittings.

 M onitor leak detection for 90 per cent of external water networks.
 1 00 per cent of non-potable exterior water use to be fromtreated sewage effluent (TSE).

WATER

 9
 5 per cent of air-conditioning condensate recovered frombuildings larger than 1,000 sq m for on-site reuse.

 I ndoor water demand reduction implemented through the
installation of efficient or water-less fixtures.

 R educe potable water use through substitution of grey water,

Sustainability
Certification

black water, air-conditioning
condensate, and on-site captureof
Sustainable Events
Environment
ClimatechangeOperationsshallow
and groundwater.
 P rotect natural water resources during construction throughManagement
proper site management.

Economicdevelopment

Water is a very scarce natural resource inthe UAE, with approximately 42 per cent of
the country’s potable water obtained fromdesalination. Seawater desalination is anenergy intensive process, so a reduction
in water demand and consumption results
Socialin significant energy
savings as well as
development
reducing corresponding GHG emissions. Inline with the UAE Water Security Strategy
2036, Expo 2020 has developed its own
water strategy, focusing on reducing thedemand on potable water systems byapplying a hierarchy of use for efficiency,
followed by the substitution of potablewater with non-potable water supplies.
The Expo 2020 site uses groundwaterPhysical
Political/Reputationalandthird-party, municipally-sourced
development
development
potable water only. For both design andconstruction, there is an opportunity
to deliver water sensitive sustainable
solutions across the Expo event.

FIGURE 16 Expo 2020 Approach to Reducing Water Consumption

1
2

Expo 2020 has athree-stream approach

3

DEMAND REDUCTION
Addressing all indoor and outdoor water-consuming
systems.
DEMAND SUBSTITUTION
a. Identifying the use of alternative water sources forthe supply of water (such as for irrigation, waterfeatures or toilet flushing);b. Creating a water balance model for each project
to consider the benefits of capture, treatment andreuse of different water streams (such as black
water, grey water or air-conditioning condensate).
WATER RESOURCE PROTECTION
Critical for delivering a sustainable construction
project, key aspects for eliminating waterway
contamination and pollution include:a. Design stage – management of groundwaterdrainage and seasonal surface water flows;b. Construction stage – pollution prevention,
construction water management andcommissioning of the construction site.

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXWATER DEMAND REDUCTION
IN BUILDINGS
Expo 2020 is achieving this target in partby using green buildings and precinct
rating systems to access the processes
and tools needed to effectively measuresustainable design and construction
against recognised, reliable standards.
By the end of 2018, more than 100 Expo
2020 buildings were on their way toattaining Gold Certification under the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) Standard. By using a thirdparty green building and site certification
strategy such as LEED to evaluate its
responsible water usage, Expo aims todemonstrate its leadership, innovation,
environmental stewardship and social
responsibility on a global level.
The benefits of a LEED-certified building
include verified, performance-based
improvements using a number of passive
and active design measures. The LEED
v4.0/4.1 Rating System uses the EPA(US Environmental Protection Agency)
Watersense label, or equivalent standards,
to establish a baseline. Expo 2020’s LEEDAs part of Expo 2020’s
ambitious water-saving
targets, several Expo sitebuildings are set to reduce
their water consumption witha 40 per cent improvement on
DEWA’s regulatory baseline.
buildings have demonstrated compliancewith this standard and have achieved ahigh level of water savings (see Table 5).
In addition to LEED’s water-savingprescriptive measures, the rating system
also requires Expo building owners andusers to support water management
and identify opportunities for additional
water savings through a number ofbehaviour influencing measures. All Expobuildings within the reporting boundary
have installed water meter systems
and indoor fixtures in order to better
gauge their water efficiency and takecorrective action if water is being wasted.
Additionally, signage in offices and at theconstruction site reminds Expo staff toconserve water during work-related tasks.

TABLE 5 Calculated LEED Water Savings: Water Consumption Reduction on Expo
2020 Site Buildings from Baseline Calculations
Indoor Water
Use Reduction

Annual Baseline
Annual Design
Percentage Reduction
Water Consumption
Water Consumption
from Baseline from
(Megalitres/year)(Megalitres/year)
Non-potable
			Water Sources
THEMATIC DISTRICTS

0.83

0.38

54.97

MULTILATERAL PAVILIONS

3.90

1.76

54.92

RENTED PAVILIONS

0.56

0.25

54.90

SERVICE PAVILIONS

1.51

0.68

54.95

64

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXWATER DEMAND SUBSTITUTION
In compliance with LEED standards andthe Al Sa’fat Rating System followed by
the Expo’s contractors and design teams,
Expo 2020 expects to see at least a 50
per cent reduction in its landscape waterrequirements from the calculated baseline
for the site’s peak watering month. The
reduction of landscape water requirementfrom the calculated baseline has beenachieved through the following strategies:

1) Use of large hydrozone surfaces withplants of medium or low waterrequirement based on the planting
design criteria.
2) Use of dripline and subsurface irrigation
with a distribution uniformity of 90 per
cent as irrigation type.
3) High moisture retention of soil mixes(such as perlite and peat moss or
recycled coco fibres).

Expo 2020 expects to see at least a 50 per cent reductionin its landscape water requirements from the calculatedbaseline for the site’s peak watering month.
TABLE 6 Irrigation Water Savings: Main Thematic Pavilions
Outdoor Water
Use Reduction

Annual Landscape
Water Baseline(Megalitres/year)

Annual Landscape
Water Requirement(Megalitres/year)

Percentage
Reductionfrom Baseline

SUSTAINABILITY PAVILION

1.07

0.42

61

OPPORTUNITY PAVILION

1.39

0.66

53

MOBILITY PAVILION

1.68

1.05

38

OVERALL LANDSCAPE

4.14

2.13

49

GROUNDWATER CONSUMPTION
Expo 2020’s groundwater supply issourced from external dewatering
activities and transported to the site bythird-party service providers. It is usedmainly for dust suppression, road levelling,soil levelling and on-site construction work.
Groundwater is also extracted from on-sitebore wells, after obtaining the necessary
permits and approvals from concerned
authorities such as the Dubai Municipality(DM). The DM permits provided indicatethat the groundwater meets the required
standards for its usage in construction
work and no substance of concern exists.
All groundwater extracted from on-sitebore wells is used for construction works
and no quantity is discharged externally.
Daily water consumption records aremaintained by Expo 2020’s contractors,
while monthly records are maintained
through Environment Data Logs.
Third-party laboratory analysis on
groundwater also ensures that the water
quality complies with Dubai Municipality
standards. On-site water requirements
for construction works are generally

TABLE 7 Total Expo 2020 Water
Consumption by Type in 2018 in
Megalitres
Water TypeEvent Master
Plan Projects

GROUNDWATER		544.674
POTABLE WATER		

258.936

TSE		148.05
TOTAL WATER CONSUMED		

951.66met by extracting groundwater fromon-site bore wells, procuring water fromexternal agencies such as DEWA, TSEfrom contractors’ other facilities (suchas labour camps) and other groundwatersupplying agencies.
There was a significant increase in water
consumption reported between Januaryand June 2018, due to the mobilisation of
more contractors on-site (including thecontractor for Expo 2020 Nursery), withconstruction work expected to have ahigher water demand.

65

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXTREATED SEWAGE EFFLUENTS
In 2018, approximately 93 per cent ofeffluent generated at the Expo site wastransported and treated at external
sewage treatment facilities in Dubai,
such as Jebel Ali Sewage Treatment Plant(STP), Al Aweer STP and IMDAAD STP. It is
expected that a municipal source of highquality TSE will be made available for thesite closer to the event date. Due to theanticipated increase in demand for TSE,a specific contractor for the Thematic
Districts obtained a permit from Dubai
Municipality in 2018 to install a temporary
STP within its project’s premises, with acapacity of 0.2ML/day. The STP follows
the Dubai Wastewater Discharge Limits
and Standards set by DM. DM conducts
regular inspections every three months totake samples and ensure that the facility
meets the required standards. All TSE
obtained from DM or from the site STP areused for specific construction works, suchas dust suppression and irrigation.

TABLE 8 Distribution of Wastewater
Generation and Reuse On-site in 2018
in Megalitres
Wastewater
Wastewater Wastewater
Type
Generation
Reuse/
		Recycle*
SEWAGE

181.36

16.09

GREY WATER

6.17

6.17

CONDENSATE00187.53

22.26

TOTAL
* After treatment

SPILLAGE
All Expo site contractors are required
to develop and include a Spill Response
Procedure in their Environment Plan,
detailing responsibilities, preventativeand mitigation measures in the eventof any type of on-ground spillage.
This includes the training of personnel,
as well as an inventory of on-site
spill response equipment. Contractors
must also provide a thoroughevaluation and reporting of allincidents related to the spillage ofhazardous chemicals, including any
follow-up preventative action.
Hazardous chemicals used on-sitemust be stored in well-ventilated andilluminated chemical storage areas or
rooms. All storage areas are provided
with an impervious floor surface, asecondary containment with 110 per
cent capacity, Material Safety Data Sheet(MSDS), and fire extinguishers and spill
response equipment in the immediate
vicinity. Spills must be dealt with inaccordance with the instructions of the
MSDS and the Spill Response Procedure.
In 2018, contractors reported sevenspillage incidents, ranging fromchemicals, diesel and hydraulic oil
spillage on untreated land. Only three ofthese spills were recognised as serious,
however all incidents were cleaned upby the respective contractors using
environmental emergency response
procedures and resolved according to
the protocol set by the Construction
Environmental Management Plan
(CEMP). There was no significant impact
from any of the spills recorded in 2018.

66

Public Realm

Ecology

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

5.

Materials

Expo 2020 Overall Sustainability Targets
 C onserve natural resources and preserve biodiversity at theMaterials

point of extraction by selecting sustainable materials for Expo
Sustainability
2020 facilities. 90 per cent of materials shall be procured in
Awareness

MATERIALS

accordance with the Sustainable Materials Guidelines.

 M inimise the depletion of natural resources by retaining 90 per
cent of materials used in permanent construction projects
designed for reuse and Legacy.

 7 5 per cent of materials used for temporary construction
projects to be redeployed or recycled.

for virgin materials, and potentiallyreduce embedded carbon.

The selection of sustainable material for
Expo 2020 is being achieved through theEnvironment implementation
Climateof the change
following practices,as outlined in the Expo Sustainable
Materials Guidelines:
Selection of materials with a lower
embedded carbon content to reduce theembedded carbon footprint of the event.
Choice of responsibly sourced materials tominimise the environmental impact
associated with material extraction,
product manufacture and transportation.
This involves obtaining Environmental
Physical
Political/Reputational
Product Declarations(EPDs) for primarydevelopment
development
construction materials.
Incorporating materials with recycledcontent to support the diversion ofwaste from landfill, reduce the demand

By incorporating sustainable material
requirements into all aspects of Expo
2020, the aim is to enhance awarenessamong the events designers andemployees. Materials are sourced throughenvironmentally and socially responsible
suppliers, while supplier employees andthose people living in proximity to material
extraction sites and manufacturing
facilities are also protected. Additionally,
the choice of low-emission materials
and products will improve the indoor
environmental quality at Expo facilities,
with a positive impact on occupants’
health, well-being and productivity.

Between January 2015 and December 2018, Expo used
2,551,847 tonnes of material in total. The total mass ofmaterials compliant with Expo’s Sustainable Materials
Guidelines was equivalent to 2,469,797 tonnes.

TABLE 9 Procurement Status of Construction Material Used forSite Work in the Thematic Districts
Material

Obtained from
Local Suppliers(Tonnes)

Recycled
Content(Tonnes)

CONCRETE 		 643,078 		

Percentage
of Recycled
Material

Percentage
of EPDs
Obtained

0		

0		

88

STEEL		

330,755		10,634.58		

3		

100

BLOCKWORK		

8,998.97		21,318.55		

42		

N/A

PAVERS		

30		 0		 0		N/A

BITUMEN		 7,191.39		 0		 0		N/ATIMBER		 4,136.04		 0		PVC		* FSC certified **30 per cent recycled

0		100*75.58		49.58		 66		 92**

All Expo materials
sourced in 2018
were approved
through one or moreof the following
standards (or its
alternative employerapproved quality
management system):BS EN ISO9001
BS EN 14001
BS 8555
ISO 26000
SA 800067Energy

Public Realm

Ecology

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

6.

Waste

Expo 2020 Overall Sustainability Targets
 E
 stablish a hierarchical waste management strategy

Waste
WASTE

throughout the Expo 2020
site, with waste avoidance as theMaterials
Sustainability
preferred solution and waste recovery as the last solution.
Awareness 	85 per cent of waste segregated into different waste streams,
during construction, operation and decommissioning, to enable
its diversion from landfill.

instance, followed by control measures to
Successful waste management can only
minimise the quantum of waste going tobe accomplished when the entire waste
a disposal site and treatment facilities, bystream is fully understood. As such,providing guidance on reuse and recycling
waste minimisation is best accomplishedSustainable Eventswith careful planning
Environment
Climate Anchangemeasures.
efficient implementationand consideration
Operations and for all anticipated waste streams. Expoof the CWMP at site shall ensure disposal
Management 2020’s project teams have developed and of residuals to have greatest net socialand economic benefits and the least
implemented strategies to minimise theenvironmental impacts.
production of waste during the event’s
design, construction and operational
The scope of the CWMP covers waste
phases, as well as for managing waste ingeneration from ongoing construction
accordance with recognised international
activities. The CWMP applies to all
best practices. Project-specific KPIs andentities working at Expo 2020 Dubai sitetargets have been set for the segregation
including Employers, Design Consultants,of construction and operational waste toSocialPhysical
Political/Reputational
Supervision
Consultants, Contractors andenableits
diversionfromlandfill.
development
development
development
Subcontractors.
For the pre-Expo phase, a Construction
Following global best practices, all
Waste Management Plan (CWMP) has
project-specific waste management
been developed in alignment with theat Expo 2020 is strategised into aoverall objectives and KPIs. The CWMP is
an approved formal procedure to establish hierarchical system of processes.
Priority is given to the minimisation
minimum requirements and standards for
and/or avoidance of the production
the collection, segregation, transportationof waste (REDUCE), followed by theand recycle/reuse/disposal of wastes
maximisation of waste value throughincluding record keeping and waste
support for efforts to reuse and recycle
tracking system. The CWMP has identified(REUSE, RECYCLE). Waste recovery
key areas, policies and regulations(RECOVER) is the last option before
for targeted interventions to avoid or
waste is taken to landfill.
minimise waste generation in the first68

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFIGURE 17 Expo 2020 Sustainability Waste Management Systems Hierarchy
REDUCE
Strategies for the minimisation of waste production has been considered across all phases of the work from design
through construction, and into operational decisions.
DESIGN PHASE
Design using prefabrication options, standardisationand modular design concepts
Functional dimensions to minimise cuts and reduce
waste generation
Design components to market-standard specifications
to minimise custom manufacturingIdentification of products with reduced packaging
requirements or with stewardship schemes in place
to optimise packing efficiencies and gain additional
unit volume

CONSTRUCTION PHASES equential programme works to avoid damage tocompleted surfaces, reducing or eliminating theneed for re-workP rovision of proper material staging/storage areas
to help eliminate breakage/damage and reduce
waste generation
OPERATIONAL PHASED evelopment of food procurement, storage andpreparation regimes to minimise food waste
Specification of reusable plates, cups and cutlery
where appropriate for significant reductions in waste

RECYCLEThe diversion of waste through recycling is the most commonly implemented aspect of the Expo 2020 wastehierarchy. This includes:
Sufficient facilities for the collection and storage ofrecyclable materials, as well as signage to encourageawareness and avoid improper sortingProvision of central sorting and storage areas at a
facility or neighbourhood scale, regardless of whether
sorting is undertaken by the building user or by afacilities management operator
Area design that accounts for potential impacts fromodour, noise and vehicle movements
Management equipment and strategies, such as
recycling chutes, compactors or balers
DESIGN PHASE
For end-of-life disassembly, avoiding the use ofcomposite products which reduce the need forprocessing prior to recycling
Avoiding coatings where possible or selecting coatings
that do not preclude recycling

CONSTRUCTION PHASEP rovision of clearly labelled waste segregation
storage areas and collaboration with a certified
waste and recycling haulier
A ppointment of a construction waste manager
and implementation of a robust worker education
programme to ensure construction waste
management is successful
OPERATIONAL PHASEP rocurement strategy for disposable items
targeting recyclable and/or biodegradable plates,
cups and cutleryP reference for biodegradable, compostableproducts
Identification of waste management companies
with appropriate facilities to process compostablewastes

REUSE
Expo 2020 has established a robust culture of material reuse throughout event planning and construction processes,
taking into account reasonable effort and costs. This strategy has many positive impacts on both design andconstruction, such as: alancing cut and fill across the project maximises theBopportunity to reuse excavated materials
Demolition products such as crushed concrete areincorporated into the project design when productis of suitable quality and its usage is compliant withbuilding codes

 alvaged materials are incorporated where possibleS
to reduce the demand for new or raw materials
Temporary items should, to a practicable extent, beprocured on lease or through buyback schemes

RECOVERIn 2018 and following the partnership agreement, Expo initiated the collaboration with Dulsco for awaste recovery strategy.

69

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXTABLE 10 Total Waste Generated
for Various Waste Streams in 2018
Hazardous Waste Stream

TonnesOIL BASED

0.00

WATER BASED

0.66

SOLID

32.76

OTHERS

0.00

88.01%

11.99%

of waste recycled orreused during construction
at the Expo siteof waste disposed atlandfill during construction
at the Expo site

FIGURE 18 Total Waste Generated for Waste Streams During Construction at the Expo Site in 2018
Generated (T)Recycled/Reused (T)		Disposed at 		
Landfill (T)CONCRETE

50,03349,774259

GENERAL

5,902

6

5,896

TIMBER

5,387

5,282

105

ASPHALT

2,662

2,338

324

STEEL ANDMETALS

1,723

1,723

0

ORGANIC

1,491

1

1,490

PLASTIC

217

194

22

PAPER ANDCARDBOARD

111

110

1

TOTAL

67,525.57

59,429.79

8,096.40

Total
Percentage

74.1%
8.7%
8.0%
3.9%
2.6%
2.2%
0.3%
0.2%

70

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

Solid waste generated on the Expo site
is classified as non-hazardous or hazardous.
In line with the Dubai Municipality’s
Technical Guidelines and the approved
Construction Waste Management Plan(CWMP), waste management practices
have been implemented across the siteand compliance to waste management
practices is actively observed. Waste
generated on-site is segregated, stored
in dedicated containers and collected
for disposal or recycling/reuse via Dubai
Municipality-approved waste service
providers. All contaminated materials
are disposed of in accordance withthe approved Waste Management
Plans. Contaminated soils and usedabsorbent equipment are also treatedas hazardous waste.

either reused on site for the constructionof access roads and to make cast spacers
and platforms as required for construction
works, or it has been stored at a local
authority facility for potential recycling or
reusing at a later stage.

Waste records and tracking sheets(waste receipts) are kept by Expo’s
various contractors, and all waste service
providers must have valid waste permits.
For 2018, the major categories for nonhazardous waste generated on-site wereconcrete waste, general waste and timber
waste. Approximately 99.5 per cent of
the concrete waste generated has been

2018’s increased rates of reuse andrecycling of non-hazardous waste are
attributed to continuous training andawareness of waste management
practices by Expo 2020’s supervisionconsultants and contractors. Contractors
are further encouraged to ensure that
100 per cent of the concrete waste isdiverted from landfills.

Approximately 87.8 per cent of theasphalt waste generated on site has beenreused, with the remaining quantity sent
to external, municipally-owned landfill
facilities for disposal. General waste andorganic waste is transported off-site anddisposed of at municipally-approved
landfill sites. To the maximum possible
extent, recyclable wastes, such as timber,plastic, paper and cardboard, steel andmetals, are either reused on-site or sent
to registered recyclers.

Continuous training and awareness of waste management
practices has lead to an increased rate of reuse andrecycling of non-hazardous waste.

71

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

C. INSPIREi.

THE PEOPLE OF EXPO 2020

1.

Introduction

Expo 2020 continues to set a regional
precedent for workforce welfare, for boththe event’s stakeholders and its partnerorganisations. The framework of this goalis the Worker Welfare AssuranceStandard. The standard is aligned with
Expo’s objective of delivering a sociallysustainable event that is positioned tomaintain the health, safety, welfare andthe dignity of all Expo 2020 employees.
The Worker Welfare Assurance Standard
also extends into the operationalframework of other organisations
working or affiliated with Expo 2020,
including vendors, contractors andsuppliers. Its guidelines proactively
support and influence effective
leadership and resources within these
entities for successful implementation
across their supply chain. In addition toa sustainable supply chain, partneringorganisations must also ensure thefollowing standards are met throughout
the event’s lifecycle:
1 Ensure fair and free recruitment
2 E nsure that employees understandthe terms and conditions of theiremployment
3 Treat employees equally andwithout discrimination
4 P rotect and preserve the dignityof employees and do not tolerateharassment or abuse of any kind
5 Respect the right of employees toretain their personal documents
6 P ay employees’ wages and benefits
on time and in full
7 A llow employees freedom to exercise
their in-country legal rights without
fear of reprisal
8 P rovide a safe and healthy working
and living environment
9 P rovide access to grievancemechanisms and remediation
10 E nsure that bonded, indentured,
forced, or child labour is not used2.

Expo People

Expo 2020’s workforce is made up of
highly qualified personnel who represent
more than 40 geographical regions.
A significant portion Expo’s workforce
will be its volunteers (see Case Study).
As of 2018, more than 2,000 volunteers
have participated and supported Expo
across various events.
All Expo 2020 employees are inducted
into the organisation through an
Employee Integration Programme on the
Expo 2020 Al Wasl intranet, an efficient
employee platform for connecting,collaborating and communicating.
This portal also offers easy accessto internal and external news and acentralised events and training calendar,with information on Expo programmes,
training events and wellness initiatives.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Expo 2020 Dubai
Volunteers Programme
The role of volunteers lies at the heart ofExpo 2020 Dubai. A true Expo for all, thisextraordinary global event will be poweredby 30,000 volunteers of all ages, nationalities
and backgrounds, reflecting the rich diversityof both Expo 2020 Dubai and the UAE.
As the ‘face’ of Expo 2020 Dubai, volunteers
will play a critical role in welcoming the world
to the UAE for the region’s first ever World Expo. They will assist in operations,information and communications, and provide a high-quality, immersive andmemorable experience to millions of visitors. They will also provide essential
guidance and support to staff, VIPs and international delegations.

“The opportunity to be involved in Expo
2020 has not only provided me withvaluable learning opportunities, butalso allowed me to grow personallyand professionally alongside my fellow
volunteers. We are united in deliveringa memorable and impactful World
Expo, and I’m so very excited andhonoured to be a part of it.”
FATIMA AHSAN, EXPO 2020 VOLUNTEER

Launched in September 2018,
the Portable Recruitment Stand
travels across Dubai and the
UAE to make volunteering for
Expo 2020 even easier. Since it
was introduced, the stand has
visited 14 public and private
entities in Dubai.
Volunteer Brainstorming Sessions enable volunteers
to be part of the Expo 2020 journey, by inviting
them to share their feedback on how to improve theVolunteers Programme, as well as their ideas for the
event as a whole. Held at venues across the UAE,
volunteers from across the community are involved,
including People of Determination, the youth,
People of Wisdom (retirees), volunteering families,
government employees and volunteers fromprevious Expos.

Four sessions were heldin 2018, covering thefollowing topics:• Sustainability• Family volunteering• Government employees• Rewards andrecognition

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDY

Expo 2020 Dubai
Volunteers Programme (cont.)
Monthly Regional Interview Days take place acrossthe emirates, reaching out to communities andassisting those who are unable to travel to theExpo 2020 site in Jebel Ali. Interviews have been
conducted in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman and all theway to Hatta’s mountains! Through these sessions,Expo has connected with over 1,000 volunteers, allhoping to be a part of this exceptional event.

The House of Volunteers (HoV) was officially launched at the Expo 2020
site in 2018. It is a space for the volunteer community to gather, learn,
network and engage as a group of like-minded people striving towards
the same goal. With interviews taking place every day at HoV, over
1,000 volunteers are invited and interviewed there each month.

“Expo 2020 is a global event for everyone to learn, innovate,
create and have fun by sharing ideas and working together
and we are proud to include opportunities for more than
30,000 volunteers…We look forward to welcoming anyone
who wants to connect with fellow volunteers from aroundthe world and gain the experience of a lifetime.”
HE REEM AL HASHIMY, UAE MINISTER OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION AND DIRECTOR GENERAL, EXPO 2020 DUBAI

2,000 350
As of 2018, more than 2,000
volunteers have supported Expo
across events such as Abu Dhabi
Sustainability Week (ADSW),
Gulf Information Technology
Exhibition (GITEX) and Arabian
Travel Market (ATM).

volunteers attended themilestone Volunteers
Celebration. Twenty of themwere recognised for their
dedication and efforts, andthe official Volunteers
Programme branding and logo
was launched at the event.

74

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXCASE STUDYEmiratisation Programme
The Emiratisation Programme, a subsection of Human Resources, has a team thatis dedicated to procuring UAE national talent who are confident in replicating
Expo 2020’s values in the lead up to the Expo, during the event and in the future.
Their mission is to deliver an exceptional Expo with meaningful national
representation, to impact the UAE’s national talent through Expo 2020’s postevent legacy and to set an example of knowledge building and transferring inmega events. In 2018, 7.6 per cent of senior management hired were from thelocal community.
2018 PROGRAMMESInternship ProgrammeThis provides a learning andtransfer of knowledge platform toyoung Emiratis. The programmeis designed to benefit national
undergraduate students and fresh
graduates to experience working at
Expo 2020. With a concrete training
road map, they are able to gain
industry knowledge, contribute to
Expo 2020’s tangible deliverables
and have the opportunity to put
forward their own innovative ideas.
Programme of Inclusion
This aims to create an opportunity
for the community to contribute,demonstrating Expo 2020’s
intention to be one of the mostinclusive World Expos ever.
Through this initiative, Expo
2020 emphasises its efforts inempowering people with disabilities
to be a part of the event, its teams
and the journey towards delivering
the most accessible Expo. The
programme has been developed incoordination with the Ministry ofCommunity Development (MOCD),
which sources candidates.
Eye on Emiratisation Wave II
This initiative continues as aleaders’ toolbox to execute themain phases in fulfilling Expo 2020
Dubai’s Emiratisation Strategy – ahigh national presentation andlegacy for the future.

75

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

3.

Employment

Expo 2020 strives to welcome a diverse set of qualified employees. In 2018, Expowelcomed a total of 249 permanent staff members for the following age groups,
gender and regions.

FIGURE 19 Total Number of Employees Hired by Age Group in 2018
250
100

35

78

15
12

129

20

120

26

129

NUMBER OF MALEEMPLOYEES120

NUMBER OF FEMALE
EMPLOYEES

150

100

Female121450

Female permanent
employee turnover

5

7

2

Male
Male permanent
employee turnover0
Under 30

30-50

TOTAL

Over 50

AGE GROUP (YEARS)TABLE 11 Total Number of Employees by Employment Contract and Region in 2018
StatusAfricaAsia
Europe				MiddleEast

North
AmericaSouth
America

Oceania Total

PERMANENT

10

64

77

67

15

2

14

249

TEMPORARY

0

1

4

5

1

0

0

11

SECONDMENT

0

4

2

2

1

0

0

9

INTERN

0

4

4

29

1

0

3

41

APPRENTICE

0

0

0

13

0

0

0

13

TOTAL

10

73

87

116

18

2

17

323

10

5

0

REGIONSEUROPE
1

2

0

3

1

REGIONS

3OCEANIA

14

10

NORTH AMERICA

15

15

SOUTH AMERICA

10OCEANIA20

SOUTH AMERICA

30

AFRICA40

NORTH AMERICA

50

16

ASIA

60

MIDDLE EAST

18
67

ASIA

64

20

AFRICA70

FIGURE 21 Total Permanent Employee
Turnover by Region in 2018

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES77

MIDDLE EAST

80

EUROPEFIGURE 20 Total Number of Employees
Hired by Region in 2018

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEESNUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

200

15

3

76

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

4.

Employee Benefits

All entry-level employees receive acompetitive wage based on the local
employment market. Twenty-one percent of the current leadership group(defined as Senior Manager and above)
are UAE nationals.

coverage, irrespective of their salary
grade. Employees also receive parental
leave, access to free online training anddevelopment, food and beverages on
campus and access to an on-campus
gym, as well as many other benefits.

According to Expo’s employment
policy and internal HR framework,
Expo 2020 employees enjoy a numberof benefits and entitlements that are
exemplary for the region. All full-time
Expo employees have leading medical

Temporary employees are also given
medical insurance, life insurance, disability
cover and paid privilege leave. Unlike fulltime staff, however, they are not eligible
to an end-of-service gratuity.

TABLE 12 Expo 2020 Employee Benefits

5.

Leave
Entitlements

In addition to the basic annual leaves (sick, annual, parental andcompassionate leave), Expo 2020 employees can take leave for theannual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage as well as exceptionally long leave toaccompany relatives for medical treatment.

MedicalBenefits

All employees and their dependents receive A-class international medical
coverage, which is free of charge and without any deductibles and/or
co-pay. This includes medical, dental, optical and maternity cover.

Educational
AssistanceExpo 2020 provides employees with educational assistance for theireligible children studying in private UAE schools.

AnnualLeave Ticket

All employees and their dependent families receive an annual return ticketfrom Dubai to their home town. Employees can also choose to receive acash allowance instead.

Parental Leave

As well as promoting
gender equality throughits recruitment policy,
Expo 2020 facilitates theretention of qualified
employees through awell-sponsored parental
leave entitlement for all
permanent employees.
In 2018, parental leave
was taken by five female
employees and 20 male
employees. At the end of
2018, the retention rate
for parents taking parental
leave was 100 per cent.

TABLE 13 Parental Leave for All Permanent
Expo Employees Jan-Dec 2018
Employees entitledFemaleto parental leave		

Male

Employees thattook parental leave

5

23

Employees that returned towork in the reporting period
after parental leave ended

5

23

Employees that returned to1
work after parental leave ended(Jan-Dec 2017) that were still employed
12 months after their return to work

1

Return to work rate

100 per cent

100 per cent

Retention rate

100 per cent

100 per cent77

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

6.

Training and Development

In 2018, the average amount of training per employee was approximately 10 hours,with 474 employees attending some form of training during that year.

TABLE 14 Total Participation in Training and Average Training Hours in 2018
Employee Category

Male		

FemaleAverage Training Hours

MANAGERIAL

192		160

NON-MANAGERIAL

40

82

11

AVERAGE HOURS

9.3

10.8

10

All Expo employees have access to an
online performance management anddevelopment system. This system allows
employees and line managers to set out
clear objectives and create a baseline
so an employee can measure their own
success against their line manager’s
expectations. Feedback from both theemployee and the line manager is sharedto uncover areas of development or
areas of strength and achievement.
The training programmes provided
included: Induction Programme,
Knowledge Lab Sessions and Peopleof Determination Awareness Training.

9.7

Delivered to new employees, theInduction Programme also helps tointroduce the Expo working environmentand set up newcomers within theorganisation. Launched in 2016, thisprogramme is especially useful within
Expo 2020 because of the need for
employees to adjust to the fast-paced
nature and complexities involved in the
set-up of a World Expo. It offers an
exciting two-day introduction to thedifferent departments within Expo,
including a walkthrough of Expo 2020’s
mission, vision and values, employer
and employee rights, employment terms
and conditions, and an opportunity for
employees to ask questions.

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Knowledge Lab
With the goal of delivering an exceptional Expo, Expo 2020 Dubai createdKnowledge Lab sessions to provide opportunities for training and equipping
employees up to the event’s launch.
Launched in August 2018, the Knowledge Lab provides informal, one-hourlearning sessions that impart valuable knowledge about the planning andexecution of operational and non-operational functions within Expo, withaccess to key information from the operations of other local and international
mega events that have taken place.
Session presentations are prepared by both internal staff and globallyrenowned event experts.
During 2018, three sessions transferred crucial information to staff, particularly
those who had not previously worked at a mega event. The first session,
attended by 58 staff, covered the role of the workforce at mega events andintegrated operations.
In September 2018, 72 Expo staff attended the second session, where key
topics included how partnerships are vital for success, the importance of trains,cars and fleet buses in keeping Expo moving, and a behind-the-scenes insight
into the Abu Dhabi Formula 1.
Held in October 2018 and attended by 48 staff, the third session discussed
in depth the role of protocol, how to keep Expo 2020 Dubai safe and secure,and the importance of engaging with international organisations and nonofficial participants.

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7.

Employee Well-being

The happiness and well-being of every
employee drives the ‘Yalla Expo!’
strategy. A dedicated function within
the Human Resources Department,
its mandate is to create and sustain ahealthy and positive work environment.
The objective is to empower the team tomake lifelong commitments to various
aspects of wellness to ensure a cohesiveand proactive environment in preparation
for hosting an exceptional World Expo.
The team at Yalla Expo! address employee
wellness through multiple levels of
engagement. In essence it inspires
positive connections with self, colleagues,
family, friends and charities through teambuilding events and workshops, charityand family events, ensuring the evolution
from team to ‘tribe’.
Programme goals include:
1 Educating and empowering
employees in six areas of well-being:
nutritional, physical, emotional, social,environmental and intellectual
2 P roviding opportunities for employees
to engage in ‘intentional activities’
that increase happiness
3 Helping make Expo into a ‘tribe’ by
fostering a positive and collaborative
culture through team building andsocial activities

The wellness strategy takes a proactive
approach to tackling stress by giving
employees tools and techniques tomanage their stress and emotions.
The team regularly provides health andfitness tips and wellness events, withsessions such as raising awareness about
specific health conditions and on-site
health assessments, as well as regular
meditation and yoga sessions for staff tounwind. The function provides training instress management, emotional intelligence,time management and prioritisation.
By increasing awareness about daily
habits and their impact on the planet andour immediate environment, Yalla Expo!
encourages and supports participationin Expo initiatives related to recycling,
composting and sustainability. The teamalso encourages staff to make healthiereating choices by incorporating healthysnack options in the cafeteria and catering
to an array of eating habits. Employees
are also offered a range of nutritional mealplans at a discounted rate.
Physical fitness and a healthy work
environment is promoted by providing
ergonomic seating for all employees aswell as an on-site gym. The wellness
department also sponsors Expo teams
for sports and local fitness events such

FIGURE 22 The Seven Petals of Wellness
NourishHealthy fuelfor our bodies

Inner well-being& happiness
The ultimate goalMove
Physicalfitness

Balance

Connect

Poise underpressure

Positive
relationships

Learn
SustainTake care of
our planet

Innovation,
creativity &lifelong learning

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as basketball, football, golf, cycling, diving
and netball (which make up only half of the
clubs that employees can participate in).
Fitness events such as the Expo Gamesare held annually and include two daysof fun-packed events with lots of games– both physical and intellectual – tochallenge and engage employees.
By encouraging giving back to thecommunity and volunteerism, theteam fosters a culture of open
communication, respect, transparency
and positive relationships. Examples
include cleaning up Jebel Ali Sanctuary,
Eid shopping with underprivilegedchildren through Emirates NBD, andschool kit packing for Syrian refugees
in Jordan through Dubai Cares.

8.

Employee HealthOperated by Dubai Health Authority (DHA),
the Expo Emergency Centre is located on
the Expo site. It provides a range of
proactive health promotion services,
including:	A nti-diabetes campaigns	B lood bank	Training on working in the heat andother occupational health concerns
Expo has also introduced campaigns
on mental health, including regularknowledge shares and othercommunication drives. After 2018, thefocus on mental health will increasesignificantly with plans to provide
training to leaders and managers, aswell as practical training for supervisors
and worker accommodation managers
to identify potential signs and symptomsof mental health concerns among staff.

“Think of our programme as a ‘well-being buffet’. We don’t
just focus on fitness and nutrition. Our strategy is holistic
and covers seven key aspects of well-being.”
ALYA AL SHAMSI, ASSISTANT MANAGER ENGAGEMENT AND WELLNESS,EXPO 2020 DUBAI81

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ii.	OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
The vast construction site and thelarge team laying the groundwork for
Expo 2020 is an engineering feat that
requires rigorous management and due
diligence when fostering partnerships
and contractual agreements, so as toensure the safety of all parties involved.
Expo 2020 Dubai has developed andimplemented an integrated strategy
and policy for Health, Safety, Quality
and Environment (HSQE). The HSQE
policy is applicable to all employees,
partners and organisations involved in
the delivery of Expo 2020. The HSQE
policy is implemented through a riskbased approach, which delivers focusedassurance activities, ensures legal
compliance and strives for global
best practice.
Expo 2020’s HSQE Strategy is basedon three core values – Care, Respect
and Pride – linked to the three disciplinesof Health and Safety (inclusive of Worker
Welfare), Environment and Quality.
Care for oneself and others, to ensurethat every person returns home in asafe and healthy condition every day.
Worker health and well-being is taken
just as seriously as occupational safety.

The HSQE policy and strategy is
supported by six strategic pillars,
which direct HSQE activities acrossExpo and create a positive HSQE
culture and performance:
LEADERSHIP
Monthly leadership tours are
conducted across the programme
to encourage project crosspollination and worker engagement.
COMMUNICATION
Topics of the month are used
to raise awareness of emerging
health and safety risks. In addition,
the Expo Promises Campaign
defines key behaviours linked tosignificant risks across the site.
COMPETENCY
A series of training programmes
are delivered across multiple
levels of the organisation,ncluding leadership, management,
supervision and front-line
operatives.

Respect for the environment, throughthe promotion of sustainable practices
and the continuous lookout foropportunities where work can makea positive environmental impact.

ENGAGEMENT
A framework of meetings andforums operates across the
programme, including quarterly
Executive level meetings, monthly
Programme Safety Leadership
meetings (for Senior Project
Directors) and monthly healthand safety practitioner meetings.

Pride in work done and by striving toachieve excellence. Expo 2020’s focus
is on getting it right the first time to
reduce defects and the need for work
to be redone.

REWARD AND RECOGNITION
A monthly award scheme operates
for organisations and individuals
that demonstrate excellence in linewith Expo’s HSQE values.
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
A comprehensive audit programme
is supported by independent
quarterly reviews of health andsafety policy and practice from the
UK Health and Safety Executive.

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A number of leading indicators havebeen established in relation to thesestrategic pillars, which are tracked ona monthly basis. All consultants andcontractors working on the Expo siteare expected to align their own
objectives and targets with the specific
Health and Safety (H&S) objectives andtargets set by Expo 2020, in order toachieve the event’s overall H&S goals.
At an operational level, the HSQE policy
and strategy is implemented throughdetailed Assurance Standards, withseparate documents for Health and
Safety, Environment, Quality and Worker
Welfare. The Assurance Standards
for Health and Safety detail specificrequirements related to health andsafety management and the operational
control of health and safety hazards
and risks. The Assurance Standards for
Health and Safety are included within allcontracts. The Expo Health and Safety
Team undertake pre-qualification ofcontractors tendering for work with
Expo to identify potential concerns
prior to contract award and to establish
improvement plans.
The Assurance Standards for Healthand Safety are informed by and closelyaligned with Federal Law Number 8 of
1980; Ministerial Order No. 32 of 1982;
Ministerial Resolution No. 1,410 of 2006;
Dubai Municipality Code of Construction;

Dubai Municipality Local Order No. 178;
Dubai Municipality Guidelines and Trakhees
Construction Safety Regulations. In
addition, international best practice,such as OHSAS 18001 (more recently
ISO 45001), has been used as the
management system framework within
the Health and Safety Standards.
The scope of the Expo health and safety
management system includes all workers
involved in the delivery of Expo 2020
Dubai, including Expo’s consultants andcontractors (including subcontractors).
The number of workers who havebenefitted from the Assurance Standards
for Health and Safety is due to peak at
40,000 in 2019.

1.

Occupational Health Services

All Expo contractors must ensurethat their workers possess a valid
occupational health card for medical
examinations at a Dubai Municipality
approved clinic in line with frequencies
prescribed in local orders 61 of 1991 and
11 of 2003. In addition, contractors must
provide free-of-charge professionalcounselling services for workers requiring
treatment for emotional, traumatic andmental illness issues.
WORKER PARTICIPATIONAll Expo contractors and consultants
are required to implement a range ofmeasures to encourage worker
participation and consultation in
health and safety, including:	P roject health and safety
leadership tours	S ite health and safety meetings	Weekly toolbox talks	D aily activity briefings
	S uggestion schemes
Contractors are also required to establish
a Worker Welfare Committee to establish
effective communications with workers,
including subcontractors. The Worker
Welfare Committee is required to meetat least every two months and include
worker representatives selected by the
workforce. Minutes of the meetings arerecorded and actions followed until
closure, with copies distributed to Expo.

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Expo Worker Welfare Department
Expo 2020 Dubai is a communitythat encapsulates best employee
practices and encourages positive
worker engagement. Expo’s Worker
Welfare Department has developed
a series of worker-centric initiatives
to ensure the promotion, inclusionand protection of those people
helping to build and deliver an
exceptional World Expo event.
During 2018, these included:
WORKER CONNECT
Expo Worker Connect is a free,completely anonymous mobile
application designed to improve
workers’ awareness and qualityof life while working on Expo 2020
projects. Groundwork for the app’s
development took place during
2018, with the app piloted in
February 2019. Downloaded via
the App Store (iOS) and Google
Play Store (Android), it provides
the following services:	E nables workers to directly
communicate any issues theymight be facing to Expomanagement.
	P rovides full anonymity, andprotects and preserves theirdignity.
	G ives workers the opportunity
to send anonymous complaints
about problems or issues theyexperience.
	Educates workers on theirrights in the UAE, and provides
information on additional
protection afforded byExpo 2020.
	O ffers eight different language
options.
	A llows workers to receive
information from the Expo
Worker Welfare team about
their project, work site andother useful resources.
	Permits workers to accesslocal resources, such as theirnational embassy.

WORKER WELFARE COMMITTEE
Functions under the Expo 2020
Worker Welfare Standards toadopt a transparent approachto communication. This requires
contractors to establish a Worker
Welfare Committee, meeting bimonthly, where representatives
selected by the workforce raiseissues pertaining to their welfare.
INVESTIGATION PROGRAMMEThe Expo Worker Welfare Teamhas developed an Investigation
Programme, to identify the root
causes of worker welfare-related
incidents. Recommendations aredeveloped from the findings, withknowledge shared across Expo toprevent reoccurrence of incidents.
INTERVIEW PROGRAMME
Speaking directly to workers onsite, the programme identifies
gaps between the realities faced
by workers, and the enforcementof worker welfare standards by
their employers.

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Expo Worker Welfare Department (Cont.)
RECRUITMENT FEE REIMBURSEMENTS
The Expo Worker Welfare Team has
worked tirelessly to ensure fair andfree recruitment and has secured
reimbursement of recruitment fees
for hundreds of workers. The teamhas also ensured revised salary
payment terms that are advantageous
to employees. The positive impactof this endeavour was seen whencontractors applied the same measure
for an additional 2,500 workers.
PASSPORT SAFESThe Expo Worker Welfare Team has
worked with contractors to develop
safe rooms within accommodation
facilities where workers have accessto individual combination safes.
These are provided for workers tosafely store their passports (andother documents) in a secure,lockable facility.
EXPO WORKER CRICKET TOURNAMENTIn October 2018, workers from Expoparticipated in a cricket tournament,with teams from across the Expo site
and a grand finale at the Dubai
International Stadium. This annualcompetition forms part of Expo 2020
Dubai’s commitment to advanceworker welfare and participation.

WHOOP STRAPThe WHOOP Strap is a high-techwellness band worn on the wristthat tracks everything from heart
rate variability to strain levels andsleep performance. The Worker
Wellness Wearable Programme (3WP)
collaborated with the Expo Worker
Welfare Team and WHOOP Inc. in
Boston, Massachusetts (MA),to develop a bespoke WHOOP
Strap exclusively for Expo workers.
Launched in 2017, this free, voluntary
initiative was scaled up significantly
in 2018. To date, 4,500 workers havejoined the programme, receiving
printouts of their wellness results via
a weekly progress report.
If any potential health risks aredetected, workers receive a healthscreening to determine the level of risk
and prevent any serious health issues
from developing. Where appropriate,
workers may also receive suitable
treatment for existing conditions.

Winners of the Expo Worker
Cricket Tournament 2018.

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Expo Worker Welfare Department (Cont.)
BETTER TOGETHER AWARDSOn December 11, 2018, the Worker
Welfare Department hosted theinaugural Better Together Awards,
celebrating the efforts of contractors
and consultants who promote thehealth, safety, welfare and dignity ofall people working on the Expo 2020
Dubai site.

Two hundred construction
professionals gathered at the Address
Montgomerie to celebrate best practiceamong the contractors and consultants
helping to deliver the Expo site. In total,
125 high-quality entries were submitted
across 12 categories. Trophies were
given to a variety of construction
professionals, ranging from workers,
supervisors and project managers, tothe individual who has most positively
impacted worker welfare.

“When it comes to delivery, Expo 2020 has four main
objectives: to get everybody home safely every day;to treat people with dignity and respect; to preserve
the environment and promote sustainable solutions;and to take pride in our work by striving for excellence
and getting it right the first time.”
TONY AIKENHEAD, CHIEF REAL ESTATE AND ASSURANCE OFFICER,EXPO 2020 DUBAI86

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2.	Health and Safety Personnel
Requirements

3.	Risk Assessment and Hazard
Identification

The Assurance Standards for Health and
Safety include requirements for healthand safety training for all employees,
consultants and contractors, including
leaders, managers, supervisors andoperatives. Progress in completingthe necessary training programmes
is monitored within monthly reports
submitted by all consultants andcontractors. Expo has also establishedan on-site health and safety training
facility and provides the following freeof-charge training courses to companies
involved in Expo 2020:
	Health and Safety Leadership– a four-hour course for leaders
providing an overview of key
elements of Expo’s HSQE strategy	Construction Health and Safety– a two-day course for project
managers covering the 10
significant hazards in the Expo
Promises campaign, focusing on
best practice in risk management
	S upervisor Training – a four-hourcourse for supervisors focusing on
the activity briefing process	V isual Impact Training – one-hourmodules covering Expo’s mostsignificant health and safety risks.
The training is delivered throughan industrial theatre concept,
acting out unsafe and safe
situations, with high levels ofaudience participation

H&S in the workplace is recognised as ahuman right and is addressed globally
through authoritative as well as intergovernmental instruments, such as
the International Labour Organisation(ILO), the Organisation for Economic
Cooperation and Development (OECD),
and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Expo 2020 recognises that achieving andmaintaining the required level of H&S isthrough proper hazard identification, risk
assessment, worker training and incident
identification, as well as their effective
integration into a well formulated H&S
management system. The processes
involved in the planning, supporting andoperating of this management system is
described in the sections below.
The Assurance Standards for Health and
Safety require consultants and contractors
to implement and maintain a health andsafety plan, which includes arrangements
for H&S management, including risk
assessment, incident investigation andother health and safety related processes.
A live document, it is periodically reviewed
and updated, while the level of detail is
proportionate to the scope of the project
and the risks arising from construction
activities. The health and safety plan isa key document and contains essential
information related to the project scope,
H&S objectives, and arrangements forcontrolling specific site risks.

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Prior to commencing their work activities,
all Expo 2020 contractors issue theirHealth and Safety Method Statements
to the supervision consultants for review
and approval. This process ensures that
key hazards associated with their work
are identified and assessed and that safe
systems are implemented.
All Expo consultants and contractors
are required to use the Expo 2020
online system for reporting work-related
hazards and hazardous situations. This islinked to the Expo Promises Campaign:unsafe behaviours (or ‘broken promises’)
are reported on the Expo online systemfor data analysis and trending of key risk
themes. All Expo consultants andcontractors are also required to use theExpo 2020 online system to reportincidents. The subsequent investigation
process requires an initial report andinvestigation to be compiled by thecontractor, which is then subject to review
and approval by the supervision consultant
and ultimately by the ProgrammeManagement Consultant (PMC) and Expoteam. Incident investigations always focus
on addressing the root causes of incidents

and implementing improvement actions
to prevent a recurrence. Progress in
implementing improvement actions ismonitored following the report, including
subsequent audits.
The importance of workers removing
themselves from unsafe situations iscovered during contractor induction
training, toolbox talks and start-ofshift activity briefings. This focuses on
empowering workers to stop work if
they feel they are in a position of serious
and imminent danger. This process
is supported by Expo’s supervisionconsultants who have the power to issuesuspension of work notices, should site
inspections and assessments determinethat work activities are being undertaken
in an unsafe manner.
Other mechanisms are also available
for workers to report hazards and unsafe
conditions, such as the Worker Connect
smartphone application and Worker
Welfare hotline, a free-phone number
for Expo workers to raise grievances thatthey may be reluctant to raise directlywith their employer.

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4.

Work-related Injuries

A total of 553 incidents occurred at Expo’s construction sites during 2018. No
occupational health data is available for third-party projects.

FIGURE 23 Data for Total Contracted Workers Involved in the Deliveryof Expo’s Construction Projects During 2018

31,237,740
Total man-hours

1

Fatality
In 2018, one fatality occurred at the Expo construction site.
A thorough investigation was conducted and actions weretaken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

A review of the historical data fromincidents and observation was undertaken
to identify the work-related hazards thatpose a risk of high consequence injury.
This was also verified by a risk profilingexercise to look ahead to upcoming
activities and hazards so as to ensure
their alignment. The use of mobile plantand equipment has been the main causeof high consequence injuries during
the reporting period. In line with the
hierarchy of controls, measures continue
to focus on effective physical segregation
between vehicles and equipment andother engineering measures. This is
supported by effective supervision,
training and information, with personal
protective equipment as the last resort.
The main types of injuries reported
during the reporting period included:
cases of workers slipping, or tripping
over construction material; workers hit bymoving or falling objects; and receiving
cuts through the use of construction tools.
All cases were given proper medical
attention and support and were followedby an incident investigation to identify
the direct and root causes to prevent
further occurrences.

5.	Occupational Healthand Safety Impacts
Expo 2020 plays a significant rolein influencing health and safety

Total numberof injuries

121

First Aid
/MTC

114

Lost Time
Incident (LTI)

3

All Incident FR* = 0.387
LTI FR = 0.0224
Fatal FR = 0.0032*FR: Frequency Rate

improvements across a range of different
stakeholders, including government
authorities, third-party developers,
sponsors, partners and associatedsupply chains.
Under the ‘Better Together’ vision, Expo
has a collaborative approach to sharing
best practices. This includes extending
invitations to health and safety meetings
and forums, and offering free training
to organisations supporting the event’s
delivery. Expo has also organised
executive-level events as a platform fordiscussing health and safety concernsand opportunities with a range ofstakeholders, as well as emphasising
the importance of leadership andcommitment in health and safety.
Established under the Expo Higher
Committee, a dedicated sub-committee
focuses specifically on worker welfare
and health and safety. With representationfrom key government authorities in
Dubai, it is tasked with tackling emiratewide issues and ensuring that Expo
2020 creates a lasting legacy for healthand safety standards and performance.
To this end, a series of meetings
and workshops have been held withgovernment authorities and developers
in Dubai to promote wider change andoverall improvements in health and safety
standards and regulation.

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iii. INNOVATION
During 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai launcheda wide range of innovative projects andinitiatives to enhance visitor experience,alongside a variety of services andsolutions that will contribute to effective
and sustainable operations throughout
the upcoming event.
INNOVATION AND FUTURETECHNOLOGY (IFT) DEPARTMENT
The IFT department at Expo focuses ondelivering innovative digital services
to all Expo stakeholders, from visitors
and international participants to Expostaff. At its heart is the development of
the immersive digital visitor experiencethat is set to make Expo 2020 Dubai themost accessible Expo ever. Along with
its international partners, the IFT teamis harnessing this technology to present
visitors with a powerful showcase of
future technology and reinforce themessages and themes of Expo 2020.
Interactive content will inspire connection
and be accessible through a range ofdigital platforms including mobile devices,
kiosks and physical installations. On-site
technologies will create a wide variety ofnext-generation experiences, enhancing
each visitor’s journey and connecting
them to one another.
Focusing on sustainability, the IFT teamhave been working with Siemens, Expo’s
Intelligent Infrastructure Partner, to rollout ‘MindSphere’ technology, which isused to manage the flow of data fromthousands of sensors located across thesite, generating information on energyuse, water consumption and air quality.
Through monitoring and controlling
consumption, the objective is to improveoverall energy efficiency at Expo: a 25
per cent reduction in water consumption
alone is expected. In 2018, the technology
was piloted at Expo 2020’s head office,which led to the roll out of automatedlighting and regulated irrigation within
the office. As the monitoring system isimplemented on a larger scale acrossthe rest of the Expo site, it is expected
to not only improve the quality of theexperience for all Expo stakeholders
before and during the event, but also toposition District 2020 as a sustainable,
smart and energy-efficient city.

“World Expos have always
been about showcasing
innovation on the global
stage, and Expo 2020
Dubai is no exception.
Innovation is in our DNA.
Not only will we provide aplatform for participants
and partners to showcaseand demonstrate innovative
content, but innovation will
be embedded in our site andthroughout our operations
to ensure an exceptional
visitor experience.”
NAJEEB MOHAMMED AL-ALI,EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE
EXPO 2020 DUBAI BUREAU90

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXUAE INNOVATION MONTHIn February 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai
participated in the first-ever UAE
Innovation Month, a nationwide
celebration supporting the UAE National
Innovation Strategy and helping to createa widespread culture of innovation andto strengthen the country’s position asa global innovation hub.
Participating across a number of
events, Expo 2020 Dubai reaffirmed its
commitment to driving global innovationin collaboration with its Premier Partners
and other entities across the UAE, andengaging with key stakeholders fromgovernment, business, academia andthe general public. This included anumber of initiatives led by otherentities, such as the official closing
ceremony of UAE Innovation Month, andan Innovation Majlis organised by the
Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation(ENEC) to discuss best practices,challenges and the future of innovationin the UAE government sector.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING(MOU) WITH DEWA AND SIEMENS
February also saw the signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)“The MoU is in line with thevision of the Vice-President,
Prime Minister and Ruler ofDubai, His Highness Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum, to increase theshare of Dubai’s total power
output from clean energy
sources to 75 per cent by
2050 through the Dubai Clean
Energy Strategy 2050.”
SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER, MD
AND CEO OF DEWA, EXPO’S OFFICIALSUSTAINABLE ENERGY PARTNER

between Expo 2020 Dubai, represented
by HE Reem Al Hashimy, Minister ofState for International Cooperation
and Director General of Dubai Expo
2020 Bureau, Dubai Electricity andWater Authority (DEWA), Expo’s Official
Sustainable Energy Partner, represented
by MD and CEO HE Saeed Mohammed
Al Tayer, and Siemens, Expo’s Official
Premier Partner for Intelligent
Infrastructure and Operations,represented by President and CEO
Joe Kaeser.

“This is truly a landmark project for Dubai and the world,
and a great step forward in building a secure supply ofsustainable energy for the region’s economic development.
Green hydrogen can be a fuel of the future. It will accelerate
the adoption of renewable energy in the Middle East throughsector coupling, offering new use cases, such as e-mobility andother environmentally-friendly industries.”
JOE KAESER, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF SIEMENS, EXPO’S OFFICIAL PREMIERPARTNER FOR INTELLIGENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXThe signing took place at the launch of
the region’s first solar-driven hydrogenelectrolysis facility at the Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in
Dubai. The purpose of the facility is totest and showcase an integrated
megawatt-scale plant, which will producehydrogen using renewable energy fromphotovoltaic solar panels, store the gas
and then deploy it for re-electrification,transportation or other industrial uses.
Hydrogen technologies are set toaccelerate renewable energy integrationand deployment in the region andpave the way for the transition to asustainable and green economy in
the UAE.
DEWA and Expo 2020 Dubai intend
to use fuel-cell vehicles powered by
the green hydrogen generated at theSolar Park. Visitors to Expo 2020 will
be able to see the key facilities at thepark, while live data from the hydrogenelectrolysis process will be displayed
during the event.

MEET THE BUYER
In February 2018, Expo 2020 hosted a‘Meet the Buyer’ session forentrepreneurs and SMEs in the security
sector as part of its commitment tofostering innovation within the business
community and promoting businessgrowth. Businesses were invited to pitch
their security technologies andinnovations directly to the Expo team,and make a direct contribution to thedelivery of a safe and secure event.
EXPO INNOVATION CUBE
Expo 2020’s School Programme
developed an ‘Expo Innovation Cube’ that
invites educators and learners to explore
the story of innovation, encouraging
students to think creatively about
inventions to inspire them to become thenext generation of innovators. The teamjoined forces with the Dubai Institute of
Design and Innovation (DIDI) to inspire
youth to find creative solutions to asignificant challenge for Expo 2020:
queueing. The ‘Expo 2020 Queueing asa Social Challenge’ competition, held

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as part of DIDI’s Project Design Space
through an innovative after-school
programme, challenged students todesign an experience, product or service
that facilitates cross-cultural connections
between people waiting in queues. The
Expo School Programme also visited
schools across the UAE to engage withstudents and encourage them to think
about the relevance of innovation in their
daily lives and the impact that past Expoinnovations have had on the world.
EXPO AND ETISALAT 5G NETWORKOn 10 July 2018, Expo 2020 Dubai set
another benchmark for the UAE’s early
adoption of innovative technology
through its partnership with Etisalat, withthe launch of the first major commercial
5G network in the MEASA region. Etisalat’s
5G network will provide state-of-the-art
network services to Expo’s millions ofvisitors and will be a key component of
the event’s ‘Smart Site’. In the longer term,
5G connectivity will enable District 2020
to achieve its goal of becoming one of
the world’s most connected and techenabled destinations for working, living
and relaxing.
WORKSHOPS AND INFORMATIONSESSIONS
Expo 2020’s ethos is to lead by example,
which saw the team organising a series ofworkshops with its partners, aiming toempower Expo employees to work
innovatively and implement creative
solutions that would positively impact theenvironment at the event. Expo’s PremierPartner, SAP, facilitated in-depth ‘design
thinking workshops’ that focused on
generating practical innovations forthemes such as security, visitor
experience and sustainability. The SAP
initiative challenged 20 students fromthe American University of Sharjah togenerate ideas on how Expo 2020 could
become the most sustainable World Expoever. Similar workshops were held in
collaboration with Cisco, Expo’s Network
Equipment Partner, harnessing thecompany’s extensive expertise indelivering digitally-driven experiencesfor global mega events to focus andinform the creativity of participants.
Premier Digital Services Partners,
Accenture and Etisalat Digital, jointly
presented the latest trends on ‘The Futureof Business, Technology and Design’ toExpo employees, while Expo was also
represented on the judging panels of an
innovation competition hosted by Premier
Onsite Banking Partner, Emirates NBD.
These exercises and others like themhelped bring together the hundreds ofphysical and digital services that will
deliver a unique, memorable and personal
experience for every Expo visitor.

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3

THE LEGACYABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

A. EXPO 2020 LEGACY		CONTRIBUTION
From the very beginning, Expo 2020
Dubai has been committed to building alegacy that is meaningful and sustainable,
extending its impact and benefits beyond
the UAE to the wider region and therest of the world. Expo 2020 Dubai will
create physical, economic, social andreputational legacies.
ECONOMIC LEGACY
Expo 2020 Dubai will contribute to new
business generation, GDP growth and job
creation across the region. Expo 2020
Dubai and its legacy will contribute to the
UAE’s ongoing economic diversification,
supporting growth in key industries
such as travel and tourism, logistics andtransport, construction and real estate,
which will continue through to District
2020. After the closure of the Expo, District2020 will be a long-term contributor to
the UAE economy, as an anchor for Dubai’s
developing knowledge economy and bycontributing to the future of business.
SOCIAL LEGACY
Hosting Expo presents an immense
opportunity to inspire, empower andinvolve the UAE’s youth before, during
and beyond Expo 2020 Dubai. Expo 2020
Dubai will promote awareness of Expo’s
subthemes of Opportunity, Mobility
and Sustainability, encourage cultural
exchanges and rekindle visitors’ interestsin these key drivers of the future. Expo
2020 Dubai will stimulate innovation byidentifying, showcasing and celebrating
innovators and breakthroughs aroundthe world, while nurturing the next
generation’s innovative spirit.
POLITICAL AND REPUTATIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
Expo 2020 Dubai will raise the UAE’s
international standing, with strengthened
bilateral and multilateral relations. Expo
2020 Dubai will highlight the UAE’s
capacity to bring the world together,promoting collaboration and crosspollination of thoughts, cultures andideas. As the first World Expo in MEASA,
Expo 2020 Dubai will showcase the great
potential of the region.
PHYSICAL LEGACY
Expo 2020 Dubai will continue to ‘connect
minds’ and inspire as District 2020. Fromlate 2021 onwards, the District will fulfil
Expo’s founding vision to continue as an
ecosystem to connect, create and innovate.
From the start, the Expo 2020 Dubai site
has been designed with its future as a city inmind. More than 80 per cent of Expo’s built
environment will live on as District 2020
which embodies the future of living andworking through a ‘new urban experience’.
As a key part of Dubai South, Expo 2020
will help foster future growth in the area.

FIGURE 24 Expo 2020 Legacy: Dimensions of Planning

Economicdevelopment

Supporting
GDP growth &economic
diversification

Strengthening
existing
industries

Socialdevelopment

Nurturing
SMEs &
EntrepreneurshipJob creation& skills,
training

Physicaldevelopment

Youth &
Volunteerism

STEAMs
Education &Innovation

Political/Reputational
development

Art, Culture &Creative
Development

Enhancingbilateral ties,
perceptions of
the region

95

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

B.		 DISTRICT 2020 –		 THE FUTURE OF THE EXPO SITE
By hosting the 2020 World Expo, Dubai
has the task of staging an exceptional
event for six months between 2020
and 2021, as well as building a global
destination that can largely be
repurposed and activated once the event
ends. The mission, therefore, is to build
a city for the future that, through design
and planning, can have the capacity tohost 25 million visits.
A significant milestone on this mission
was achieved in 2017 when the postExpo site, District 2020, was unveiledat the Cityscape Global Exhibition.
Creating a lasting legacy for the UAE
and continuing Expo’s mission, District2020 will be a destination to Connect,
Create and Innovate. It will connect
original thinkers, innovators and pioneers,

enabling them to share ideas, learn fromeach other and unlock their inspiration.
It will boast a vibrant and inclusive
community that celebrates diversity andcarries the spirit of Expo 2020 Dubai forgenerations to come.
Located in Dubai South, near Al
Maktoum International Airport, District2020 will be easily accessed by all of the
UAE’s air and sea ports. The site, which
will reuse at least 80 per cent of theworld-class infrastructure built by Expo
2020 Dubai, will be served by major
highways and a dedicated Dubai Metro
Route 2020 station. The integrated
hub will offer a new urban experience,building on the legacy of Expo 2020 andfacilitating the acceleration of Dubai’s
sustainable development.

“District 2020 will continue to carry forward Expo 2020’s
mission of connecting people – offering a new urban experience.
It will be at the cutting edge of modern working and living– combining places to work, rest and explore to create an
ecosystem that stimulates connections, inspires creation anddrives innovation, creating value for all those who come here.”
MARJAN FARAIDOONI, CHIEF PAVILIONS AND EXHIBITIONS OFFICER,EXPO 2020 DUBAI

96
96

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXFEATURES PLANNED FOR DISTRICT 20201

 mart mobility options,Ssuch as smart parking,public transit apps andsmart shuttle vehicles.

2

3

A gross floor area (GFA) of morethan 2,500,000 sq metres.

 More than 100 serviced land plots forresidential, mixed, commercial andhospitality use, available for sale.


200,000
sq metres ofcommercial and residential
space, available to rent andoccupy from 2021.
	 T his includes 55 grade-A
commercial buildings and
800 modern residential units

4

97
97

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98
98

FEATURES PLANNED FOR DISTRICT 2020 (cont.)5

 istrict 2020 is zoned forD
up to 3,000 hotel keys.

 dedicated autonomous vehicleApublic transit route, which will link all
major landmarks within the project
via a four-kilometre loop.

6

District 2020 will contribute to the UAE Vision 2021 by supporting the growth of
tourism, stimulating the development of innovative businesses and enhancing thecountry’s international reputation as a location to do business. The community will
ensure the impact of Expo 2020 Dubai extends far beyond the six-month event,contributing to a sustainable and enduring legacy.

7

 menities include 10 kilometres ofAbike paths, five kilometres of jogging
tracks, 48,900 sq metres of greenparks, gardens and water features,and pedestrian walkways throughout.

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

99
99

ICONIC DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN DISTRICT 2020 WILL INCLUDE

AL WASL PLAZA
130 metres in diameter andmore than 67 metres tall, Al
Wasl Plaza’s domed trellis will
be a canvas for panoramic
projections that can be viewed
from both inside and outside.

1

DUBAI EXHIBITION CENTRE(DEC)
can be configured for all
types of events, including
conferences, exhibitions,summits, banquets andindoor concerts.

3

 HILDREN AND SCIENCE CENTRE
C
designed to push the limits ofsustainable practice and technology,
Expo’s Sustainability Pavilion will
become District 2020’s Children andScience Centre, providing enriching,enjoyable experiences and engaging
ways to learn for families andschool students.

2

4

EXPO 2020 CONTRIBUTION
TO THE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALSABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX

A. THE SDGs AND EXPO 2020
DUBAI OPERATIONSTHE UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALSAs the planet faces pressing social,environmental and economic challenges,
unified commitments are necessary
to combat these sustainability issues.
Following and expanding on the Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs), the United
Nations (UN) Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) present an unprecedented
opportunity to define global priorities andaspirations for 2030. They address global
challenges concerning poverty, inequality,
climate, environmental degradation,
prosperity, peace and justice. Within aframework of 17 goals and 169 targets,
the SDGs seek to mobilise worldwide
action among governments, civil society,and businesses to put the world on asustainable path.
EXPO’S ALIGNMENT TO THE SDGs
Expo 2020 Dubai is committed to shining
a light on the SDGs and their global
aspirations. This is reflected throughout
Expo, from its subthemes of Opportunity,
Mobility and Sustainability, through to its
pavilions, programmes and operations.
Expo will be a platform to progress humaningenuity in addressing the challenges
presented by the SDGs.
THE SDGs AND THE EXPO 2020
PAVILIONSThe pavilions presented under Expo’s
subthemes proactively engage with visitors,
to enable them to become more selfaware in the role they play within society
and on the planet, so as to make real
strides towards solving global challenges.
Specifically, the Opportunity Pavilion
establishes an experience for visitors tofurther understand the challenges facing
humanity through the lens of the SDGs,
engaging with the audience to help themunderstand the impact they can make.
Please see Appendix for more information
about Expo 2020 Dubai’s alignment with
the SDGs in coordination with the material
GRI indicators used for this report.

The SDGs and the Global Best
Practice Programme
Similarly, Expo’s Global Best Practice
Programme seeks to promote projects
that are providing tangible solutions thatare in line with the SDGs. Through theprogramme’s aims for collaboration,
creativity, sustainable impact andtransference, Expo seeks to enhance thevisibility of best practices for a better 2030.
The programme contains five focus areas:
INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLESERVICE DELIVERY
Reliable service provision in
urban, suburban and rural areas,
as well as in fluid environments such as
informal, nomadic, post-disaster, emergency
and refugee settlements.
LIVELIHOODS AND
ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
Promoting alternative
employment and income
opportunities, women in the workplace,competitive products and services andimproved market access.
RESILIENT HABITATS
Better protecting human,economic and natural
assets in urban, rural andfluid environments (informal, nomadic,
post-disaster, emergency and refugeesettlements).
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Reliable, affordable andappropriate healthcare andeducation systems and delivery.
WATER, FOOD AND
ENERGY SECURITY
Smarter consumption andresource management tobetter meet increasing water, foodand energy requirements for a growing
global population.

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ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEXThe SDGs and Expo 2020
Dubai Operations
Examples of Expo 2020 initiatives
that are aligned to the SDGs andtheir respective targets*

Goal 3

An on-site emergency centre,
operated by Dubai Health
Authority (DHA). This provides
proactive health promotion
services for all Expo workers,
such as anti-diabetes
campaigns, blood banks,
mental health and occupational
training for working in the heat.

Goal 549% of employees hired in2018 were female.

Goal 4Engaging with students on theimpact of innovation throughthe Expo School Programme.
Expo’s Innovation Cube invites
educators and learners tocome up with creative
solutions for queueing duringExpo, designing a system thatencourages cross-culturalconnections between people
in-line.
Goal 6

Goal 7Engaging with UAE schools on
sustainability issues throughthe Sustainability Champions
Competition. A collaboration
with MOCCAE and MOE,
winning schools were awarded
photovoltaic panels worth up
to AED 500,000 for theircampus.

Addressing irrigation needs
and developing methods tominimise water loss throughevaporation through a water
efficiency programme. Expo
also has initiatives for water
conservation and consumption.
Expo project teams aim tounderstand ecological systems
such as groundwater, withprocesses to protect andrestore this within
the Expo site.

Goal 8

A proactive approach toinclusiveness, aligned with the
UAE’s National Policy for
Empowering People with
Special Needs. An employee
programme helps staff
understand the experiences ofPeople of Determination.

Goal 9A dedicated department for
Innovation and Future
Technology explores
technological advancements ininfrastructure and digitalsystems to create sustainable
and efficient solutions for the
Expo site that will last as
a legacy for the wider UAE
community.

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103

Goal 10

Expo's Worker Welfare
Assurance Standard mandatesa fair and free recruitment
process, and takes a strong
stance against discrimination.
This also extends to Expo's
supply chain whereby
partnering organisations must
adhere to the same standards
in employee equality.

Goal 13

Goal 12A waste management target
to divert 85% of waste fromlandfill (by weight). In 2018,
88% of waste was recycled/reused and diverted fromlandfill.

Expo developed a uniquemethodology for calculating
GHG Emissions Inventory formega events. This takes into
account the multi-year andmulti-operational nature of theevent’s total emissions impact.

Goal 14A dedicated Spill Response
Procedure, with extensive
processes to deal withhazardous chemicals to
mitigate water contamination,and preserve the UAE’s scarcewater resources.
Goal 16

Goal 15

A dedicated ecosystems
management process toconserve and protect
biodiversity and ecology
within the Expo construction
site. Expo’s ecosystemconservation targets mandate
no harm to any fauna
or flora.

Expo 2020 HSQE Policy andthe Environment AssuranceStandards mandate soundenvironmental management
to comply with applicable
environmental laws
and regulations. No incidents
of non-compliance wererecorded in 2018.

Goal 17

Expo’s World Majlis provides
a platform to welcome diverse
voices across cultures, sectors
and generations to explore
topics under the subthemesof sustainability, mobility andopportunity. It acts as an
incubator for meaningfulconnections between people
and ideas.

*These initiatives do not cover
the entire scope of Expo’s
activities towards the SDGs.

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | INDEX104

APPENDIXGRI Indicator

GRI Indicator

305-1:
305-2:

102-3: 	Information on employees andother workers
401-1: 	New employee hires and employee
turnover404-3: 	Percentage of employees receiving
regular performance and careerdevelopment reviews

305-3:
306-1:
306-2:
306-3:
403-2:
403-3:

Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
Energy indirect (Scope 2)
GHG emissions
O ther indirect (Scope 3)
GHG emissions
Water discharge by qualityand destination
Waste by type and disposal method
Significant spills
Hazard identification, risk assessment
and incident investigation
Occupational health services

404-1:

Average hours of training per year per
employee

401-1:

N ew employee hires and employee
turnover
Parental leave
Average hours of training per year per
employeeP ercentage of employees receiving
regular performance and careerdevelopment reviews
Incidents of discrimination andcorrective actions taken

401-3:
404-1:
404-3:

406-1:

303-1:
303-3:
306-1:
306-2:
306-3:
302-1:
302-4:

301-1:
Materials used by weight or volume301-2: Recycled input materials used
302-1: 	Energy consumption within theorganisation
302-4: Reduction of energy consumption
303-1: 	Interactions with water as a sharedresource
302-1: 	Energy consumption within theorganisation
302-4: 	Reduction of energy consumption
305-1: Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
305-2: 	Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
305-3: 	Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
305-5: Reduction of GHG emissions
305-1:
305-2:
305-3:
305-5:
306-3:

I nteractions with water as a sharedresource
Water withdrawal
Water discharge by quality anddestination
Waste by type and disposal method
Significant spills

305-2: 	Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
305-3: 	Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
305-5: Reduction of GHG emissions

 nergy consumption within theEorganisation
Reduction of energy consumption

201-1: 	Direct economic value generated anddistributed
Materials used by weight or volume301-1:
301-2: Recycled input materials used
302-1: 	Energy consumption within theorganisation
302-4: Reduction of energy consumption
303-1: 	Interactions with water as a sharedresource
303-3: Water withdrawal
404-1: 	Average hours of training per year
per employee
404-2: 	Programmes for upgrading employee skills
and transition assistance programmes
201-1: 	Direct economic value generated
and distributed

Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
Reduction of GHG emissions
Significant spills

307-1: 	Non-compliance with environmental
laws and regulations
408-1: 	Operations and suppliers at significant
risk for incidents of child labour
N/A

Alignment Relevance
LOW

MEDIUM

HIGH

Relevance ranking methodology: Identifying the correlated aligned
relevance rank per goal is done by mapping the material GRI KPIs tothe targets associated with each SDG. A percentage is obtained by
identifying how many targets are covered through the mapping
exercise against the total number of targets within a goal. Low relevanceindicates 1-30% alignment, Medium relevance indicates 31-60%
alignment, and High relevance indicates over 61% alignment. I.e.
Goal 13 has 5 targets, and the material GRI KPIs align with three targets,
thus indicating a 60% alignment (medium).

METHODOLOGYThis Sustainability Report presents the first steps in aligning Expo’s material
GRI indicators to SDG target disclosures. Utilising the publication developedby GRI and the UN Global Compact, ‘An Analysis of the Goals and Targets’,
the methodology in the publication illustrates how the SDGs target
disclosures can be aligned with GRI indicators. By identifying the links
between Expo’s material GRI indicators with the SDGs target disclosure, thisreport was able to map the number of goals and targets it is aligned with.

Although Expo covers Goal 17 and is highly aligned with the targets, themethodology does not include disclosure linkages with GRI indicators. It isalso worth noting that the SDGs alignment specifically pertains to the 2018
Sustainability Report and Expo’s material topics. Furthermore, this SDGs
mapping exercise is a high-level activity and does not reflect the full extent
of Expo’s overall alignment with the SDGs.

5

GRI CONTENT INDEXAND TOPIC BOUNDARIESFor the Materiality Disclosures Service, GRI
Services reviewed that the GRI content index
is clearly presented and the references fordisclosures 102-40 to 102-49 align withappropriate sections in the body of the report.

For the GRI Content Index Service, GRI Services
reviewed that the GRI content index is clearlypresented and the references for all disclosuresalign with the appropriate sections in the bodyof the report.

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | I N D E X

A. GRI CONTENT INDEXGRI Standard Disclosure/Description

Page

GENERAL DISCLOSURESGRI 101 Foundation 2016
GRI 102 General Disclosures 2016
102-1 Name of the organisation

10102-2 Activities, brands, products, and services

12-14

102-3 Location of headquarters

18

102-4 Location of operations

18

102-5 Ownership and legal form

24-27

102-6 Markets served

18, 23, 29

102-7 Scale of the organisation

18, 40, 76

102-8 Information on employees and other workers

72-74, 76

102-9 Supply chain

32-38

102-10 Significant changes to the organisation and its supply chain
No significant changes occurred to the organisation and its supply chain

Content Index

102-11 Precautionary principle or approach
Expo 2020 is applying the precautionary approach in its environmental activities

Content Index

102-12 External initiatives

15, 52102-13 Membership of associations
Expo 2020 is not a member of any associations

Content Index

102-14 Statement from senior decision-maker

6-7

102-16 Values, principles, standards and norms of behaviour

14102-18 Governance structure

24-27

102-40 List of stakeholder groups

29-30

102-41 Collective bargaining agreements
There are no collective bargaining agreements in the UAE

Content Index

102-42 Identifying and selecting stakeholders

29-30

102-43 Approach to stakeholder engagement

29-31

102-44 Key topics and concerns raised

30-31

102-45 Entities included in the consolidated financial statements
No entities are included

Content Index

102-46 Defining report content and topic boundaries

10, 30-31, 110

102-47 List of material topics

31

102-48 Restatements of information
This is Expo 2020’s first report

Content Index

102-49 Changes in reporting
This is Expo 2020’s first report

Content Index

102-50 Reporting period

10102-51 Date of most recent report
This is Expo 2020’s first report

Content Index

102-52 Reporting cycle

10102-53 Contact point for questions regarding the report10

102-54 Claims of reporting in accordance with the GRI Standards
This report has been prepared in accordance with the GRI Standards: Core option

10102-55 GRI content index

105-109102-56 External assuranceThis is Expo 2020’s first report. No external assurance occurredContent Index

106

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GRI Standard Disclosure/Description

Page

MATERIAL TOPICSECONOMIC
Economic Performance
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

39-40

103-2 The management approach and its components

39-40

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

39-40

GRI 201 Economic Performance 2016
201-1 Direct economic value generated and distributed

39-40

		
Market Presence
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

75-76

103-2 The management approach and its components

75103-3 Evaluation of the management approach75

GRI 202 Market Presence 2016
202-2 Proportion of senior management hired from the local community

75, 77

Innovation
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

90-93

103-2 The management approach and its components

90-93

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

90-93

Non-GRI Disclosure
Description of innovative projects and initiatives

90-93

Description of stakeholders’ involvement

90-93

ENVIRONMENTAL
Materials
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary51

103-2 The management approach and its components

51103-3 Evaluation of the management approach51

GRI 301 Materials 2016
301-1 Materials used by weight or volume

67

EnergyGRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

61-62

103-2 The management approach and its components

61-62

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

61-62

GRI 302 Energy 2016
302-1 Energy consumption within the organisation

61-62

302-4 Reduction of energy consumption

61-62

Water & Effluents
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary63

103-2 The management approach and its components

63103-3 Evaluation of the management approach63

GRI 303 Water & Effluents 2018
303-1 Interactions with water as a shared resource64

303-2 Management of water discharge-related impacts

64

303-3 Water withdrawal

65-66

303-4 Water discharge

65-66

303-5 Water consumption

64-65

107

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GRI Standard Disclosure/Description

Page

ENVIRONMENTAL (CONT.)
Emissions
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

52-56

103-2 The management approach and its components

52-56

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

52-56

GRI 305 Emissions 2016305-1 Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions

53

305-2 Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions

53

305-3 Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions

53

305-5 Reduction of GHG emissions

53, 56

Effluents & Waste
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

68-71

103-2 The management approach and its components

68-71

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

68-71

GRI 306 Effluents & Waste 2016306-1 Water discharge by quality and destination

65-66

306-2 Waste by type and disposal method

70-71

306-3 Significant spills

66

Environmental Compliance
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary51

103-2 The management approach and its components

51103-3 Evaluation of the management approach51

GRI 307 Environmental Compliance 2016
307-1 Non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations
Content Index
Expo 2020 Dubai complies with all relevant environmental regulations set forth by the UAE Federal	
Government and Dubai Municipality. During 2018, the organisation has not been in violation of any
environmental regulations nor has it received any complaints relating to environmental matters
Supplier Environmental Assessment
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary51

103-2 The management approach and its components

51103-3 Evaluation of the management approach51

GRI 308 Supplier Environmental Assessment 2016308-1 New suppliers that were screened using environmental criteria

51

SOCIAL
Employment
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary72

103-2 The management approach and its components

72103-3 Evaluation of the management approach72

GRI 401 Employment 2016
401-1 New employee hires and employee turnover76

401-2 Benefits provided to full-time employees that are not provided
to temporary or part-time employees

77

401-3 Parental leave

77

Occupational Health & Safety
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

82-83

103-2 The management approach and its components

82-83

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach

82-83

GRI 403 Occupational Health and Safety 2018403-1 Occupational health and safety management system

82-83

403-2 Hazard identification, risk assessment and incident investigation

87-88

403-3 Occupational health services

83

108

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GRI Standard Disclosure/Description

Page

Occupational Health & Safety Cont.
403-4 Worker participation, consultation and communication on occupational health and safety

83-86

403-5 Worker training on occupational health and safety87403-6 Promotion of worker health80-81, 83-86

403-7 Prevention and mitigation of occupational health and safety impacts
directly linked by business relationship89403-8 Workers covered by an occupational health and safety management system

83403-9 Work-related injuries

89

Training & Education
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary78

103-2 The management approach and its components

78103-3 Evaluation of the management approach78

GRI 404 Training & Education 2016404-1 Average hours of training per year per employee

78

Non Discrimination
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary72

103-2 The management approach and its components

72103-3 Evaluation of the management approach72

GRI 406 Non Discrimination 2016406-1 Incidents of discrimination and corrective actions taken
Zero incidents of non-discrimination have been reported during the reporting period

Content Index

Child Labour
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary72

103-2 The management approach and its components

72103-3 Evaluation of the management approach72

GRI 408 Child Labour 2016408-1 Operations and suppliers at significant risk for incidents of child labour
No incidents of child labour have been reported in 2018

Content Index

Human Rights Assessment
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary33

103-2 The management approach and its components

33103-3 Evaluation of the management approach33

GRI 412 Human Rights Assessment 2016412-1 Operations that have been subject to human rights reviews or impact assessments
clauses or that underwent human
There were no rights abuse incidents reported in 2018

Content Index

412-3 Significant investment agreements and contracts that include human rights clausesor that underwent human rights screening

33

Local Communities
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary

40-41

103-2 The management approach and its components

40-41

103-3 Evaluation of the management approach40-41

GRI 413 Local Communities 2016413-2 Operations with significant actual and potential negative impacts on local communities Content Index
There has been no negative impact to the local community as a result of the event planning andconstruction activities of Expo 2020. There were no rights abuse incidents reported in 2018
Socio-economic Compliance
GRI 103 Management Approach 2016
103-1 Explanation of the material topic and its boundary24

103-2 The management approach and its components

24103-3 Evaluation of the management approach24

GRI 419 Socio-economic Compliance 2016419-1 Non-compliance with laws and regulations in the social and economic area
There were no non-compliance with laws and/or regulations reported for 2018

Content Index

109

ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | I N D E X

110

B. BOUNDARIES
Boundary definitions: in accordance withGRI Standards, boundaries refer to theplace where impact has occurred andExpo’s involvement with these impacts.
This Sustainability Report defines thespace-based boundaries as:
O n-site: the geographic spatial
boundaries where the event will occur.
This does not include Expo Village andDubai Exhibition Centre (DEC)O ff-site: activities which do nottake place within Expo’s geographic
spatial boundaries

Material Topics

In addition to this, Expo also includes
temporal boundaries, dividing its
operation into three time-related phases.
The boundaries of this Sustainability
Report falls under the pre-event phase,unless stated otherwise:P re-event phase: the preparation
period before the event
Event phase: the six-month durationof the eventLegacy phase: the period after
the eventMaterial Within
Relevant Stakeholders
the Organisation		
Expo 2020 LLC and
its employees

International
Participants

Vendors/
Suppliers

Local
Community/
Volunteers

Civil
Society

Site
Boundary

Construction
Consultants &Contractors/
Workers
Partners

Youth &
Schools
Government
Programmes Authorities

ECONOMIC
Economic 										On-site		
Performance
Off-site		 Market Presence									
On-siteInnovation 										On-site		Off-site
ENVIRONMENTAL
Energy				On-site

Water

		

		

On-siteEmissions				On-siteEffluents & Waste				On-siteMaterials				On-siteEnvironmental
Compliance				Supplier
Environmental
Assessment				

On-siteOn-siteSOCIAL
Employment
Occupational healthand safety									
On-site					On-siteTraining andeducation

On-site									Local community				On-siteSocio-economic
compliance				

Non discrimination

				

Human rights
assessment				Child labour				On-siteOn-siteOn-siteOn-siteABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI | THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUSTAINABLE EXPO | THE LEGACY | THE SDGS | I N D E X

C. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONSAASHTO	American Association of State Highway

EPR

Environmental Performance Report

and Transportation Officials

FTE

Full-time Employees

ACI

American Concrete Institute

GDP

Gross Domestic Product

ADSW

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

GFA

Gross Floor Area

AED

Arab Emirates Dirham

GGBS

Ground-granulated Blast-furnace Slag

GHG

Greenhouse Gas

Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning

GITEX

Gulf Information Technology Exhibition

Engineers

GMO

Genetically Modified Organism

ASTM	American Society for Testing and Materials

GRI

Global Reporting Initiative

BAU

GVA

Gross Value Added

H&S

Health and Safety

Sourcing

HE

His or Her Excellency

Bureau International des Expositions

HH

His Highness

HSQE

Health, Safety, Quality and Environment

producing concrete

IFT

Innovation and Future Technology

BS EN ISO 14001	Internationally-recognised Environmental

IPM

International Participants Meeting

ASHRAE	American Society of Heating,Business As Usual

BES 6001	Framework Standard for Responsible
BIE

BS 8500	British Standard for specifying andManagement System (EMS) standardISO	International Organisation for

BS EN ISO 9001	Internationally-recognised Quality
Management System (QMS) standard
BSI

Standardisation
IUCN	International Union for Conservation

British Standard Institution

BS OHAS 18001	Occupational Health and Safety
Assessment Series, British Standardof Nature
KPI

Key Performance Indicator

LEED	Leadership in Energy and Environmental

for Occupational Health and Safety

DesignManagement Systems

LLC

Limited Liability Company

CCA

Crushed Concrete Aggregate

MD

Managing Director

CDM

Clean Development Mechanism

MEASA

Middle East, Africa and South Asia

ML

Megalitres

MOCCAE

Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

MOCD

Ministry of Community Development

Plan

MOE

Ministry of Education

CEO

Chief Executive Officer

MoU

Memorandum of Understanding

CH4

MethaneMSDS

Material Safety Data Sheet

CoC

Chain of Custody

NRCS

Natural Resources Conservation Section

CO2

Carbon dioxide

NAMA	Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action

CEEQUAL	Civil Engineering Environmental Quality
Assessment and Award Scheme
CEMP	Construction Environmental Management

CO2e

Carbon dioxide equivalent

PAS

CWMP

Construction Waste Management Plan

PEFC	Programme for the Endorsement of Forest

DACC

Dubai Aviation City Corporation

DEC

Dubai Exhibition Centre

PJSC

Public Joint Stock Company

DED

Department of Economic Development

PMC

Programme Management Consultant

DEWA

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

PV

Photovoltaic

DG

Director General

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride

DHA

Dubai Healthy Authority

RICS

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

DIDI

Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation

RTA

Roads and Transport Authority

DM

Dubai Municipality

SDGs

Sustainable Development Goals

SME

Small to Medium EnterpriseCommerce Marketing

STP

Sewage Treatment Plant

EAD

Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi

TSETreated Sewage Effluent

ECVM

European Council of Vinyl Manufacturers

UAE

United Arab Emirates

EF

Emission Factors

USD

United States Dollar

EMAS

Eco-Management and Audit Scheme

UPS

United Parcel Service

ENEC

Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation

VCM

Vinyl Chloride Monomer

ENOC

Emirates National Oil Company

VIP

Very Important Person

DTCM	Department of Tourism andEPA	United States Environmental

Certification

WBCSD	World Business Council for Sustainable

Protection Agency
EPD	Environmental Product Declaration

Publicly Available Specification

Development
WRI

World Resources Institute111

Connecting Minds,
Creating the Future
20 October 2020 – 10 April 2021