Although specific figures have not yet been released, based on previous world exhibitions, it can be expected that the total carbon footprint of EXPO 2025 will range from hundreds of thousands to several million tons of CO₂ equivalent. For example, EXPO 2020 in Dubai had an estimated carbon footprint of approximately 1.5 million tons of CO₂.​

Approaches to reducing carbon footprint

The organizers of EXPO 2025 in Osaka are planning several measures to minimize environmental impact:​

• Carbon-neutral pavilions: Many countries, including the Czech Republic, have committed to the carbon neutrality of their pavilions.

• Sustainable building materials: Use of recyclable and environmentally friendly materials in the construction of pavilions.​

• Energy efficiency: Emphasis on the use of renewable energy sources and energy-saving technologies.​

• Virtual connection: Possibility of a virtual visit to the exhibition through AR and VR technologies, reducing the need for travel and the associated emissions. ​

These measures are part of EXPO 2025's broader effort to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and support the transition to a "super smart society" (Society 5.0).

EXPO 2025 Osaka – carbon footprint estimate

Basic data:

• Location: Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka

• Date: April 13 – October 13, 2025 (6 months)

• Expected number of visitors: ~28 million

• Area of the premises: ~155 hectares (1.55 km²)

• Topic: "Designing Future Society for Our Lives"

• Goal: the most sustainable EXPO possible, with carbon-neutral pavilions

1. Visitor transportation

Let's assume that 80 % visitors arrives by plane:

• 22.4 million people × 1.5 t CO₂e/year (average) = ~33.6 million tons of CO₂e

→ This figure makes up the largest part of the carbon footprint and will vary significantly depending on the origin of visitors and the proportion of virtual participation.

2. Construction and infrastructure

• Pavilions, transport networks, energy, etc.

• Estimated built-up area: ~1.5 million m²

• Emissions from construction: 750 – 1,500 kg CO₂e/m²

→ ~1 – 2 million tons of CO₂e

3. Operation during the exhibition (6 months)

• Energy, water, air conditioning, waste

• Use of renewable resources only partially assumed

→ Estimate: 100,000 – 250,000 tons of CO₂e

4. Pavilions and technologies

• Average: 150-200 countries

• Estimate for 150 pavilions (10,000 – 20,000 tons CO₂e/pavilion) → ~2 – 3 million tons of CO₂e

(Reduced thanks to carbon-neutral pavilions – e.g. Czech Republic, Japan, Austria…)

Total estimated carbon footprint of EXPO 2025 Osaka:

What does it look like in context?

• EXPO 2025 Osaka will probably have the highest carbon footprint in EXPO history, mainly due to air transport.

• However, if a high proportion is achieved virtual participation, more efficient construction technologies, compensation a renewable resources, can be significantly reduced.