Reduce Election Posters

Consultation - Electoral Commission Electoral Postering Consultation An Coimisiún Toghcháin (An Coimisiún), Ireland’s independent electoral commission, was established on 9 February 2023. An Coimisiún’s powers are set out in the Elector...

The Electoral Commission will need to work out the details and propose a Bill to provide the legal basis for a system of designated poster boards/sites which will be available to display posters from all candidates fairly. Let them know your views at electoralcommission.ie/consultation/ by 9th May!

We are not looking for a total ban because we can see the value of public postering in raising awareness of the candidates and the election. Adopting the system used in many continental countries is the best approach.

What’s the litter and microplastics impact of posters?

Our climate impact calculation doesn’t include the litter impact including microplastics from posters blown down and scattered on land and sea, for which we haven’t been able to find any estimates.

What’s the climate impact of posters?

The climate impact per poster (32”x48”) is estimated at 8 to 12 kg CO2e. Using the low estimate of 600,000 posters gives emissions of 6,000t CO2e. This is the equivalent of switching 6,000 cars from petrol to electric for a year!

How many posters are used for an election?

A figure of 600,000 posters was reported for the 2014 local elections.
Our visual estimate is that the general election in November 2024 saw a much higher number of posters being erected.

Make postering fair!

Some wealthy candidates saturate available lamppost space denying space to their rivals (background pic.) Shared sites are needed throughout the country, ensuring that the public is made aware of the holding of the election and of all candidates.

Our overall goal:
Election posters should be restricted. The best way to do this is to set up designated sites / poster boards. These should be provided to candidates by local authorities as is common practice in many continental democracies and in Japan (profile pic.)

Consultation - Electoral Commission Electoral Postering Consultation An Coimisiún Toghcháin (An Coimisiún), Ireland’s independent electoral commission, was established on 9 February 2023. An Coimisiún’s powers are set out in the Elector...

The Electoral Commission is seeking the views of the public on election posters. Respond by 9th May at 5pm at electoralcommission.ie/consultation/. This survey can be completed in as little as 5 minutes. Your involvement could make a huge difference to our environment and our democracy.