B1 – Intermediate
Amsterdam has banned public advertisements for meat and fossil fuel products, including burgers, chicken, petrol cars, and airline travel.
The Dutch Meat Association and Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators disagree with the prohibition. On the other hand, environmental activists support the decision.
Read the article about Amsterdam’s public advertisements ban for meat and fossil fuel products.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2605/260507-public-advertisement-ban.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “carbon neutral” mean? “The ban is to help move Amsterdam towards its target of being carbon neutral by 2050.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “consumer behaviour” mean? “The Dutch Meat Association says ban is an undesirable way to influence consumer behaviour.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to set a global standard” mean? “By becoming the first capital to legally ban fossil fuels and meat advertising, Amsterdam is setting a global standard.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your opinion about the ban on public ads for meat and fossil fuel products in Amsterdam?
- What might be the pros and cons of this ban?
- The Dutch Meat Association says that the ban is an undesirable way to influence consumer behaviour. What is your opinion on this?
- Should other cities or countries follow Amsterdam’s example? Why or why not?
- Should governments have the power to restrict ads for products they consider harmful? Explain your view.
- How do you think advertising influences people’s food choices and travel habits?