Brussels is moving to ban street advertising by fossil-fuel firms – the EU officials who live there should take note

Elsene has joined four other Brussels municipalities in calling for a ban on fossil-fuel advertising. These municipalities represent about one-third of the Brussels-Capital Region's population. While local politicians push for this ban, the EU faces significant lobbying pressure from the fossil fuel industry, which has extensive influence over decision-making. Research indicates that fossil fuel lobbyists frequently engage with EU officials, undermining climate regulations. The councillors argue that allowing fossil fuel advertising in public spaces is detrimental to climate efforts. They seek to emulate successful bans in over 70 cities worldwide. The Brussels-Capital Region must now respond to these local motions and consider a city-wide ban on fossil fuel advertising.