In recent decades, the advertising industry has played a significant role in building demand for consumption. By tapping into the psychology of residents, advertising campaigns are designed to build desire for new products and remind people to consume more throughout their daily routines. Many cities generate revenue from selling advertising space in well used public places such as bus stops, trains and squares. For many cities, it has become a part of the urban landscape.

While public advertising may seem ubiquitous, many cities are exercising a degree of control over what is advertised and where to protect the public interest. For example, some cities are placing controls on the advertising of junk food to safeguard citizen health, and others have banned the promotion of air travel to reduce demand for emission-intensive holidays. Cities can, instead, use public advertising to promote circular economy initiatives within the city, such as ‘libraries of things’, second hand stores, repair cafes, or reuse hubs. Alternatively, cities can reduce the number of advertising locations around the city, or even ban public advertising altogether. Old billboards and other advertising sites can be opened up to the community for street art, notice boards or greening.