Bristol bans ads for petrol, diesel, hybrid cars and SUVs in climate push

Bristol City Council voted to bar advertisements for petrol, diesel, hybrid plug-in vehicles and all SUV models from bus stops and certain free-standing screens in the city centre, while permitting ads for fully electric cars. The policy defines SUVs according to DVLA classifications, meaning electric SUV variants are also excluded. The ban expands to other high-impact ads, including those for long-haul flights, fast-fashion retailers, Black Friday promotions, weapons, youth-focused fast food, tobacco and gambling.

Council leaders say the move supports Bristol’s climate and sustainability goals, despite an estimated annual revenue loss of roughly £80,000. The decision aligns Bristol with over twenty UK municipalities that have introduced similar advertising restrictions.