The Hague to Ban Fossil Fuel Ads in Public Spaces by 2025

In a groundbreaking move, The Hague in the Netherlands will implement a prohibition on advertisements promoting fossil fuels and other high-carbon services in outdoor public spaces starting January 1, 2025. This initiative marks a significant step in the city’s ambition to achieve climate neutrality by 2030.

The Municipal Council of The Hague approved the ban, which targets street advertising, including billboards and freestanding digital displays. This decision underscores the city’s rising commitment to combating climate change by curtailing the promotion of products and services that contribute substantially to carbon emissions.

A spokesperson for the council highlighted that two proposals were passed. “The first informs advertising agencies that fossil fuel advertising will no longer be permissible, while the second enforces a comprehensive ban on such ads in public areas.”

The legislation is likened to the restrictions on tobacco advertisements found in numerous regions worldwide due to their detrimental effects on public health. Environmental advocates argue that the same stringent measures should be applied to fossil fuel advertisements because of their role in encouraging activities that harm the planet.

This action aligns with the recent calls by UN Secretary-General António Guterres urging nations to ban fossil fuel advertising, denouncing the sector as the “godfathers of climate chaos.”

Leonie Gerritsen, a council member representing the Party for Animals and the originator of the proposal, expressed optimism that other cities would mirror this effort in addressing climate change by reducing public exposure to fossil fuel advertisements.

With this pioneering decision, The Hague sets a powerful example for cities worldwide, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to combat climate change effectively. As the city propels towards its 2030 climate-neutral target, this ban on fossil fuel advertising is expected to play a critical role in fostering a more sustainable environment.