There are five basic elements in ancient Chinese philosophy. Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. Not surprisingly, these five elements can be found throughout the various pavilions of the Shanghai Expo, which has been playing a constant drumbeat of environmental sustainability since its conception.

Australia and Luxemburg pavilions chose to encase their pavilions in metal. Luxemburg uses iron plates for its outer wall, while the top of the main building also bears the sharpness of metal.

Australia also applied an iron shell to its pavilion. Gradually, the walls will turn darker and darker, finally becoming a deep red, imitating the red earth of Australia's inland territory.

The warmth of wood comes through at Spain Pavilion, where eight thousand cane patches give the structure the appearance of a giant basket. While the pavilions of Vietnam, Indonesia, and Peru use bamboo to build the walls. And Canada's maple leaves are formed with wooden materials in its pavilion's facade.

The element of water is found in the World Meteorologic Pavilion with its cloud-like appearance. The Finland Pavilion is placed IN water, referring to the country's prevalent lakes. And the famous "Little Mermaid" is placed inside Denmark pavilion, showcasing its water-filled natural ambiance.

Brazil Pavilion shows the fiery enthusiasm of the country's people. So the element FIRE represents the people's personality, as is reflected in their zeal for football stars.

And Joint Africa Pavilion showcases the theme of fire with their exuberant dances.

Lastly, the element earth is practically worshiped at New Zealand Pavilion. And Mexico buries itself in the element, building its three floors of exhibition halls beneath the ground. And Chile displays a virtual well in its pavilion, representing the childhood fable that says if you dig a hole straight through the Earth, you'll eventually reach China.

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