Climate change warning on petrol pumps

Council chiefs in the American city of Berkeley have voted to introduce the first petrol pump warning labels about climate change.

The Californian city will be adapting their petrol pumps to include a cigarette packet-style warning sticker in the spring, in an attempt to remind motorists that burning fuel contributes to global warming.

The proponents of the scheme claim that many don’t associate their own energy use with climate change. The scheme goes on to say a connection must be made to move beyond awareness into understanding before individual action will be taken.

The proposal, which was recently passed, highlights that labelling of the gas pumps acts as one tool towards increasing understanding of the link between driving and CO2 emissions and global warming.

However, the scheme has come under threat from Western States Petroleum Association, due to the plans imposing ‘onerous restrictions’ on businesses.

Michael Bennett, MD at specialist environmental PR agency Pelican Communications, said: “It will be interesting to see if this scheme is picked up in the UK, like many other USA trends. It is an innovative way to promote climate change right at the source. It is also a good way to educate people on understanding their own emissions footprint.”

Pelican Communications are specialists in the environment, food and drink, outdoor and leisure and packaging sectors and offer a range of services such as media relations, brand management, event management and people development. Contact us for marketing and communications expertise.