Cars damage the planet, as well as our health: why not give this information to consumers exactly like cigarettes, alcohol and tobacco? This is the idea of the new legislation that will come into force from March 1st in France and which aims to direct citizens towards more responsible and sustainable purchases.
Car advertisements will must contain a clear disclaimer that discourages their use. Car manufacturers will be able to choose between three types of messages: “Consider carpooling“, “For short trips, choose to walk or bike” or “Use public transport for your daily commute“. The commercials must also include the hashtag #SeDéplacerMoinsPolluer (move around with less pollution). This is a first eco-sustainable turning point in cars marketing; the first step towards 2028, the year in which it will be forbidden to promote the most polluting vehicles through advertising channels, i.e. those that emit more than 123 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
The new rules apply to television or radio advertisements, in cinemas, on the Internet or in print. Those who do not respect them a 50,000 € fine for each ad.
Car advertising for more informed consumers
Just as in the packaging of smoking products, now in France the same car manufacturers will have to advise against the use of vehicles by promoting alternative means of transport. Could it be a winning move to make consumers more aware? Is it indeed an adequate way to accompany them along the road to 2035; the year that the European Commission has chosen to stop thermal engines? The reactions were, of course, different. From all sides, many note that the law does not distinguish between electric and thermal models.
However, it is a first step. What do you think about it? Will such legislation arrive in Italy? Share with us your thoughts!
