In 1984, the United States of America will host a major international exposition that will explore the fundamental relationship of water to life. The theme is most timely and appropriate. We are the first generation in history to have seen the Earth from space, and it has given us new understanding.
Earth is primarily a water planet.
As the world economy grows, the wise use of all resources, including fresh water, becomes increasingly important. The direct human suffering caused by severe droughts and floods is monumental and can affect the global economic and political system. Man's technological and economic response to the challenge of new demands on our water needs to be shared and demonstrated. There is inspiration, too, in the power and majesty of the world's rivers and their role in shaping the culture and history of so many different peoples. This celebration of the World of Rivers will be a celebration of the human experience itself.