The Hague Municipality - Fossil Fuel Advertising Ban
Robert Barker, the alderman responsible for advertising policy and a member of the Party for the Animals (PvdD), compared fossil fuel ads to those for tobacco, alcohol, or gambling, which are already restricted. He stated, "Smoking harms your lungs, and fossil fuels harm the planet's lungs." This analogy underscores the perceived public health and environmental risks associated with fossil fuels.
The legislation prohibits advertisements for gasoline and diesel cars, aviation, cruise ships, and energy contracts involving coal or gas. These ads are banned from billboards, bus shelters, and digital screens throughout the city.
The campaign primarily targets advertisers and companies promoting fossil fuel products and high-carbon services. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness among the general public about the environmental impact of such products and services.
TARGET AUDIENCE
About the
Campaign -
Robert Barker, the alderman responsible for advertising policy and a member of the Party for the Animals (PvdD), compared fossil fuel ads to those for tobacco, alcohol, or gambling, which are already restricted. He stated, "Smoking harms your lungs, and fossil fuels harm the planet's lungs." This analogy underscores the perceived public health and environmental risks associated with fossil fuels.
Core Theme of the Campaign -
1. Pioneering Legislation: The Hague became the first city globally to legally ban fossil fuel advertising in public spaces, setting a precedent for other municipalities.
2. Comprehensive Ban: The prohibition covers ads for gasoline and diesel vehicles, flights, cruises, and energy contracts derived from coal or gas, ensuring a wide-ranging impact.
3. Legal Enforcement: By embedding the ban into local law, The Hague ensures strict enforcement, moving beyond voluntary measures seen elsewhere.
4. Climate Neutrality Goal: This initiative aligns with The Hague's ambitious objective to become climate-neutral by 2030, demonstrating the city's commitment to environmental sustainability.
5. Global Influence: The move is expected to inspire other cities worldwide to implement similar bans, potentially leading to a broader shift in advertising standards related to fossil fuels.
6. Public Health Parallel: Drawing parallels to tobacco advertising bans, the campaign emphasizes the detrimental effects of fossil fuels on both human health and the environment.
7. Anticipated Legal Challenges: The travel industry, represented by the ANVR, plans to challenge the ban in court, citing free speech concerns. However, city officials remain confident in the legal standing of the ban.
8. UN Endorsement: The ban aligns with calls from global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who has advocated for restrictions on fossil fuel advertising similar to those on tobacco.