A City of Sydney Council meeting will today debate whether to ban fossil fuel advertising on its properties, including one of the largest outdoor advertising networks in the world and events such as New Year’s Eve.
This follows an open letter from more than 200 health professionals and organisations, asking for such bans because of the health and climate effects of burning coal, oil and gas.
Jess Scully, the deputy lord mayor: “I am proud to be leading a motion that would see a blanket ban on fossil fuels advertising.
"The motion asks council to advocate for the state and federal governments to restrict the advertising of fossil fuels similarly to the federal ban on tobacco advertising in 1992.”
Comms Declare, a coalition for positive climate action from the communication, creative and advertising sector, launched the Fossil Ad Ban campaign.
The campaign is supported by leading health organisations including the Australian Healthcare and Hospital Association, Australasian Epidemiological Association, Australian Federation of Medical Women, Medical Scientists Association of Victoria, Doctors for the Environment Australia and Climate & Health Alliance.
In April, Yarra became the first council in Australia to move to restrict the promotion of fossil fuels on council-run property, followed by Moreland in July.
Comms Declare founder Belinda Noble said: “Australia was a world leader in stopping tobacco advertising and sponsorships and now we are poised to become leaders in curtailing the promotion of toxic, high emissions fossil fuels.
"These promotions increase demand for damaging products, and create misinformation and greenwashing that is delaying climate action.
“The community has a right to decide what is promoted in our public places and we are grateful for leaders who prioritise our health and planet."
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.