Traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat | Toronto | September 26, 2024 — In response to the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) passage of a motion to restrict fossil fuel advertising:

“The TTC’s decision to restrict fossil fuel advertising is a breath of fresh air. As North America’s first public transit system to ban tobacco ads decades ago, the TTC is once again leading the way to restrict harmful advertising. This decision recognizes that fossil fuel pollution – like tobacco smoke – poses serious health risks to our communities, particularly children and vulnerable populations. As a physician and frequent transit rider, I applaud the TTC for combatting messages that help fuel the climate crisis. I urge others to follow suit. By limiting fossil fuel ads, we can clear the air of both pollution and propaganda, paving the way for a healthier future,” said Dr. Melissa Lem, family physician and CAPE president.

“What a relief for Torontonians to no longer be bombarded with fossil fuel propaganda during our daily commute. The TTC’s decision to ban these ads is a powerful step towards protecting our health and our environment. By removing these misleading messages from our buses, streetcars, and subways, the TTC is helping to clear the air—both literally and figuratively. As a mother looking out for future generations and a CAPE physician working for a healthy planet and healthy people, I commend and support the TTC for prioritizing the well-being of citizens over fossil fuel interests,” said Dr. Mili Roy, a Toronto-based ophthalmologist and chair of CAPE Ontario regional committee.

– 30 –

The TTC’s motion “Misleading Fossil Fuel Advertisements on TTC” can be viewed here.

CAPE media contact:

Reykia Fick, Communications Director, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE), 647-762-9168, media@cape.ca