Brussels, March 27, 2025 – The municipality of Saint-Gilles has taken a pioneering step in Belgium by advocating for a regional ban on fossil fuel advertising.
This initiative, which will be presented in a climate motion vote on Thursday, aligns with the municipality’s increasing commitment to climate action at a time when global environmental goals face growing scrutiny.
The motion, spearheaded by the municipal council with support from the Ecolo-Groen faction, aims to curb the influence of fossil fuel advertising, which Councillor Loes Salomez (Groen) describes as a “fundamental obstacle to climate transition.”
The proposal also seeks to inspire other municipalities to adopt similar measures, following the example of cities like The Hague, Edinburgh, and Sydney.
A Call for Regional Action
Saint-Gilles’ proposal is part of a broader push to address the climate crisis at the local level.
The municipality is urging the Brussels regional government to investigate the feasibility of banning fossil fuel industry advertising or, alternatively, imposing a discouraging tax on such ads to support regional climate efforts.
“It should be the largest shoulders that bear the heaviest burdens,” Salomez stated, emphasizing the need for the fossil fuel industry to contribute more substantially to climate action funding.
The move comes in response to UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ call in June 2024 for a global prohibition on fossil fuel advertisements, which he likened to previous bans on tobacco advertising due to their harmful societal impact.
Broader Climate Ambitions
Beyond the advertising restrictions, the municipality’s climate motion also outlines various local initiatives to enhance environmental sustainability.
One key focus is increasing green spaces, particularly in lower-income neighbourhoods that are more vulnerable to climate change effects.
Special attention will be given to improving the urban environment for children. Plans include greening school zones and nurseries, as well as promoting soft mobility alternatives.
The motion proposes reinforcing the concept of “school streets,” which involve temporarily or permanently restricting vehicle access around schools to ensure safer and more pedestrian-friendly environments for children.
“Our priority is not just to advocate for broad policies but also to implement tangible local improvements,” Salomez added. “By making Saint-Gilles greener and more accessible, we are setting a precedent for the entire region.”
A Growing Movement
If Saint-Gilles’ motion succeeds, it could set a precedent for other municipalities in Brussels and across Belgium.
Environmental advocates argue that restricting fossil fuel advertising is a necessary step in countering misinformation and reducing the societal dependence on polluting energy sources.
With climate change becoming an increasingly urgent issue, Saint-Gilles’ push for a fossil fuel advertising ban signals a growing movement towards stronger climate policies at the local government level.
As the vote approaches, all eyes will be on the municipality to see whether its bold initiative gains the regional traction it aims for.
