INBAR Pavilion model unveiled

As participant of Shanghai Expo this year, the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) unveiled its pavilion model on March 18, 2010 in Beijing.

INBAR will set up an independent exhibition hall in the International Organization Pavilion at Shanghai Expo to leverage the international exposure of the Expo to further promote the use of bamboo and rattan as resources for environmental protection and poverty alleviation, while promoting fairer trade.

In line with the theme of Expo 2010 "Better City, Better Life," INBAR pavilion's theme is "Bamboo& Rattan: Enriching Lives." The focus will be on how bamboo and rattan help not only to lower the carbon footprint, but also to provide employment and economic development for poverty-stricken communities around the world.

INBAR's pavilion will be located at the heart of the 5.28 square kilometer expo site, on the banks of the Huangpu River in the International Organizations Joint Pavilion in Zone B.

The centerpiece of INBAR's pavilion will be a structure made out of high-tech bamboo panels modeled after the historic Temple of Heaven in Beijing. The pavilion's sculptural form will acknowledge ancient constructions in China, while demonstrating in a visually-striking way the sophistication of modern urban design possible with bamboo and rattan. It will use bamboo and rattan for over 90 percent of the Pavilion's construction. Both are environmentally-friendly building materials and promise to become important sustainable building materials of the future.

The design will challenge traditional perceptions of bamboo and rattan-rather than expecting arts and crafts. Visitors will be greeted with a striking visual demonstration of bamboo and rattan creative and innovative high-tech products.

The pavilion will also employ energy-efficient LED screens to showcase photos and films that will engage visitors from all over the world. The LED screens present many advantages over incandescent light sources, including lower energy consumption, saving up to 90 percent of electricity. Not only do the screens offer longer life they have improved robustness, greater durability and reliability. By installing energy-efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs, INBAR will further reduce the overall energy use of the pavilion. All materials used in the Pavilion are renewable and will be recycled after the Expo.

Inside the pavilion, there will be dynamic and interactive exhibits, including visual demonstrations of creative, innovative and high-tech bamboo and rattan applications for urban living. A combination of static and dynamic product display and video exhibits will entertain, educate and engage visitors.

Product displays will include a variety of products that can be produced with bamboo and rattan for urban living, ranging from housing and furniture to guitars and computer covers. Bamboo charcoal, an innovative product which can help meet energy needs as well as serve to purify air and water, will also be presented there. Videos will showcase successful stories of how bamboo and rattan contribute to sustainable living and livelihood development around the world.