May's positive climate news

A Dutch court has upheld The Hague’s world-first ban on fossil fuel advertising, prioritising public health over commercial interests. The ruling, hailed as historic by campaigners, rejected legal challenges from travel groups ANVR and TUI, who argued the ban infringed on free speech and business rights. The court found the city’s reasoning valid, affirming that the ban could help combat climate change and improve residents’ health. Activists compare it to anti-smoking ad bans, urging other cities to follow suit. Public support is strong, with 71% of Dutch citizens backing such measures. Fines for violations began on 1 May 2025.

California State University Channels Islands has installed free solar charging benches across campus offering students a sustainable way to power devices outdoors. Provided by Bluebolt outdoor at no cost to the university, the benches use solar panels to charge up to eight devices off-grid and store power for five days. This initiative supports campus sustainability without budget strain, with similar installations expanding to other US universities. The program is funded through on-bench advertising, creating a self-sustaining model for green tech on campuses.

From 2027, nearly all new homes in England must have solar panels under the government’s net zero strategy. The requirement will add £3000 - £4000 to construction costs but could save homeowners over £1000 annually. The government also plans grants and loans to retrofit existing homes. While the move aims to cut emissions and reduce energy bills, critics argue it lacks sufficient investment in green jobs. The policy highlights the crucial role of housing in climate efforts, though it also underscores the challenge of balancing environmental goals with economic concerns.

A University of Bath study shows that London’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) have significantly improved public health and saved over £37 million annually. Since implementation, sick leave fell by 18.5%, respiratory issues dropped by 10.2% and overall health problems declined by 6.8%. The zones also improved wellbeing and reduced anxiety. Researchers say the cleaner air boosts productivity and life satisfaction, strengthening the case for similar policies in other cities worldwide.

More music festivals are going meat-free as part of a broader sustainability shift in the live music industry, according to a new report by A Greener Future (AGR). In 2024, 20% of the 40 festivals studies were fully vegetarian or vegan, up from 8% in 2023. Food and drink emissions are second only to transportation, with meatless events cutting food-related emissions to under 10%. Other gains include improved recycling, reduced waste and wider use of renewable energy. While travel remains the biggest emissions source, artists like Massive Attack, Coldplay and Billie Eilish are leading efforts to cut event footprints, often promoting plant-based food and sustainable logistics. AGF sees these changes are “promising signs” of the industry’s growing commitment to climate action.