Amsterdam is the first capital city in the world to ban advertising for air travel, meat products and fossil fuels in public spaces. The city wants to implement its climate targets more consistently.
Amsterdam has introduced a far-reaching ban on advertising in public spaces. Since May 2026, advertisements for air travel, meat products, cruises or cars with combustion engines are no longer allowed to be displayed in the Dutch capital. This includes billboards, public transport stops and subway stations. The measure makes Amsterdam the first capital city in the world with such a ban.
The decision is based on the city's climate policy. Amsterdam is pursuing the goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050. At the same time, meat consumption is set to fall significantly. According to the city, this should also be reflected in the public space. Where there used to be advertising posters, there are now more frequent references to culture, museums or events in the city. The city argues that advertising not only informs, but also influences consumer behavior. Products with a high climate impact would be normalized as a result.
The ban on tobacco advertising is often cited as an example. A similar approach was chosen there; by withdrawing public advertising, the aim was to make smoking less visible and less attractive. Some stakeholders speak of a possible "tobacco moment" for highly climate-impacting products in connection with meat and flight advertising.
However, the ban does not apply in full to all forms of advertising. Supermarkets, restaurants and butchers may continue to advertise within their own sales areas. The ban only applies to public spaces.
The reactions vary. Supporters see this as a necessary adjustment to the city's climate policy and a clear political positioning. Criticism comes primarily from the meat industry and parts of the tourism and aviation sectors. There, the ban is seen as an encroachment on economic interests and a restriction of advertising.
