Warning labels on adverts for flights etc. A good idea?

[Simon]

Simon Retallack, from the UK Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), likes the idea of putting warning labels on adverts for flights, holidays and cars.

We know that smokers notice health warnings on cigarettes, and we have to tackle our addiction to flying in the same way.

But if we are to change people’s behaviour, warnings must be accompanied by offering people alternatives to short-haul flights and by steps to make the cost of flying better reflect its impact on the environment.

Simon Retallack wants higher air fares, including carbon offset charges. And any passenger unwilling to contribute should “be forced to actively opt out”.

Read more: Flying Kills - Guerrilla campaign from Swedish climate activists

What do YOU think? Is it a good or bad idea?

[only_green_no_gray]

I like it, very good idea indeed.

But will the govs. allow it?

[mountainhiker]

Sounds good on the service but with the trouble that most airlines are in, many will see this as an added cost with no payback. Airlines and national govs will not support it.

[Simon]

Sounds good on the service but with the trouble that most airlines are in, many will see this as an added cost with no payback. Airlines and national govs will not support it.

First, it's just a warning label on their advertisements. It wont cost them anything extra.

Secondly, if they are in such troubles why keep going? Isn't it better to just call it a day and shut down your buisness?

[only_green_no_gray]

First, it's just a warning label on their advertisements. It wont cost them anything extra.

Secondly, if they are in such troubles why keep going? Isn't it better to just call it a day and shut down your buisness?

But the companies won't like to make publicity against their own and will make pressure on the govs to not approve that law

[Simon]

But the companies won't like to make publicity against their own and will make pressure on the govs to not approve that law

Sure, but it has worked for the cancer industry... oh I mean the cigarette industry.

[only_green_no_gray]

Sure, but it has worked for the cancer industry... oh I mean the cigarette industry.

Yeah, but remember that health has a bigger impact on the people than the environment

[mountainhiker]

Yeah, but remember that health has a bigger impact on the people than the environment

Ouch, Boy the truth hurts! Of note also is how long it took them to get the label on that pack of cancer sticks

only_green_no_gray does score a key point here, health and ease of travel both score above the environment. Lets face it, if you are in London and want to spend your time on a sunny beach, a slow boat is not going to win any elections.

[Simon]

Yeah, but remember that health has a bigger impact on the people than the environment

Yea, but this question is more thna just health.

Ouch, Boy the truth hurts! Of note also is how long it took them to get the label on that pack of cancer sticks

only_green_no_gray does score a key point here, health and ease of travel both score above the environment. Lets face it, if you are in London and want to spend your time on a sunny beach, a slow boat is not going to win any elections.

Well, luckily you dont have to go by boat if you live in London.

[only_green_no_gray]

Yea, but this question is more thna just health.

Yeah i know, but will the regular people or the govs get that idea?

Maybe it would be better promulgate the fact that by protecting the environment you are also protecting your health and them those labels will be more accepted and comprehended by the general public

[mountainhiker]

Yeah i know, but will the regular people or the govs get that idea? NO!

Maybe it would be better promulgate the fact that by protecting the environment you are also protecting your health and them those labels will be more accepted and comprehended by the general public

The problem is this would pose a problem for people going on vacation! Clearly, a vacation is going to win over the environment for the majority of the people.

[only_green_no_gray]

The problem is this would pose a problem for people going on vacation! Clearly, a vacation is going to win over the environment for the majority of the people.

The major problem with flights are those close distance flights and those that aren't full. If these two problem were solved it would make a huge difference. It would not be perfect but would be a start

[mountainhiker]

The major problem with flights are those close distance flights and those that aren't full. If these two problem were solved it would make a huge difference. It would not be perfect but would be a start

Agree on the close distance flights, they have solved the problem of the ones that are not full in the US. Less flights, mean all are packed which causes huge issues if there are any weather delays...

[Simon]

Yeah, I fully agree with you Miguel.

One solution to the problem is to get rid of the post-ww2 thinking and accept that the aviation industry should also pay taxes, like everybody else.

[mountainhiker]

One solution to the problem is to get rid of the post-ww2 thinking and accept that the aviation industry should also pay taxes, like everybody else.

Pretty radical concept, expecting businesses to pay their fair share of tax.

[netridge]

I don't think we should offer any alternatives, we have offered alternatives for years and look were we are at now. I think if our behavior is going to change with need drastic change.