The Hague has taken a leading role as the very first city in the world to pass legislation banning ads for fossil fuel products and services with high carbon footprints. This groundbreaking law will take effect next year. It stops showing ads for petrol, diesel, aviation, and cruises on the city’s public spaces such as billboards and bus shelter areas. This development comes as a response to the UN’s call for leaders and news agencies to address promotions that harm the environment.

This new law which took two years to pass, is considered as critical move to stop the normalization of unsustainable behaviors through advertising. It doesn’t cover political ads from oil and gas companies, but is likely encourage similar actions around the world. Supporters believe that stopping these ads allows for using resources to encourage eco-friendly practices, showing The Hague’s commitment to fighting climate change.