We, the youth and citizens of Athens, call on the Municipality of Athens, the Athens Urban Transport Organization, and other public advertising authorities in Athens to ban public advertising by fossil fuel companies and plastic polluters. At the same time that the capital is "boiling" from the effects of the climate crisis, these industries that are causing it continue their communication strategy by greenwashing, promoting their high-emission products.
Athens must set an example and remove their toxic influence from our public spaces.
Fossil fuels are the main cause of the climate emergency. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global CO₂ emissions need to be cut by 43% by 2030 to avoid catastrophic global warming. However, fossil fuel companies are spending billions on advertising to whitewash their green image while expanding their production. The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that no new oil, gas or coal projects are compatible with limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
On the other hand, pollution from plastics – which are also fossil fuel products – is just as devastating. The United Nations Environment Programme reports that only 9% of plastics are recycled, while Greenpeace and the global coalition Break Free From Plastic point out that plastic production is expected to triple by 2040, exacerbating ocean pollution and the destruction of wildlife.
Athens, a city rich in history and culture, should not be complicit in promoting these industries.
At the same time, other European cities are already taking action. Paris banned fossil fuel advertising in 2023, while Amsterdam and Brussels have restricted advertising for high-emission products. Athens must follow suit.
Our message is clear: enough with the greenwashing. Enough with the manipulation. Athens deserves clean air, a stable climate and a future free from corporate exploitation. We refuse to let polluters define the narrative of our city.
We call on the citizens of Athens and civil society organizations to take action and sign this appeal to demand:
1. The removal of fossil fuel and plastic pollutant advertisements from public spaces.
2. A permanent ban on such advertisements in Athens and on the transportation system (OASA).
3. Support for ethical and sustainable industries that align with our climate goals.
It's time. For a #FossilFreeAthens
