5 Powerful World Environment Day Commercials That Urged Consumers to Act for a Greener Tomorrow

At a time when the world is grappling with challenges like climate change and environmental sustainability, World Environment Day commercials are playing a key role in spreading awareness about the need for environmental protection. Every year brands launch ad campaigns that not only draw people’s attention to these serious issues but also tell them how they can play a role in safeguarding the future of our planet.

So, here we are with 5 such World Environment Day commercials that not only stirred us to protect our planet but also provided ways to do so. Let’s take a look!

1. United Nations: Beat Plastic Pollution (2023)

The United Nations has always been at the forefront when it comes to fighting climate change. This 2023 advert calls for real action to counter the menace of single-use plastics and urges people to minimize their use of these materials.

The 1-minute spot underscores how the durability of plastic is both its benefit and its curse. The ad then goes on to suggest ways like creating circular and sustainable alternatives and managing plastic waste more efficiently to end plastic pollution. Honestly, there is no shortage of low-cost alternatives, and replacing single-use plastic with these shouldn’t be too much of a problem. All that’s needed is a strong will to do so!

2. Hero MotoCorp: The Little Things (2021)

While the entire world is today talking about how countries and global brands can reduce their carbon footprint, it’s worth noting that an average Indian household emits 1.3 tonnes of carbon every year.

This means that the change must come at the grassroots level for it to be reflected on a bigger national level. Thankfully, there are quite a few things that people can do regarding that. From reducing mobile data usage and running the air conditioner at higher temperatures to reduced binge-watching and fridge usage, this 50-second advert by the Indian motorcycle brand Hero MotoCorp has listed down the whole shebang for reduced carbon emissions.

Yes, that’s all it takes to make a difference!

3. Hyundai: Don't Be an Idler (2019)

Most people tend to turn off the taps if they are no longer using the water. Also, they switch off the lights when they leave the room. However, how often do we turn off the engine while waiting in traffic?

This impactful 30-second spot by Hyundai urges drivers all over the world to give their engines a break while they are waiting in traffic. You see, even a minute of no carbon emissions helps protect the environment.

So, the next time you are waiting in traffic, remember to turn off your engine!

4. United Nations: Will You Join Generation Restoration? (2024)

As supposedly the most intelligent species and the ones causing maximum environmental pollution, the responsibility of leaving the earth a better place clearly lies on the shoulders of humans.

This 1-minute ad by the United Nations appeals to humankind to play their part in environmental protection and conservation. The way to do that? Revive lands, end desertification, and save water.

It shouldn’t be too difficult, right?

5. IKEA: Climate Action Starts at Home (2019)

From using the sunlight to lighten up your home to cycling to work instead of using a car, there are plenty of things that you can do to cut down your carbon footprint in half and make a difference right from the moment you wake up and get off your bed!

Similar to the Hero MotoCorp mentioned above, this 80-second ad by IKEA mentions a plethora of things that you can do to make the earth a more livable place. Going much further than merely encouraging people to adopt an environment-friendly approach, IKEA has switched its entire lighting range to energy-efficient LED to sourcing all of the cotton they use in their products from more sustainable sources.

Now, that’s how you create a compelling World Environment Day ad campaign- pitch your product while aligning it with the larger environment conservation theme. Nicely done, IKEA!

Wrapping Up

And that’s a wrap of some of the most powerful World Environment Day commercials that inspired action and encouraged people to act to protect the environment. These commercials go beyond mere words—they challenge us to rethink our habits and embrace small but meaningful changes.

By blending creativity, emotion, and clear calls to action, they prove that advertising can be a force for good, pushing consumers to take responsibility for the planet. As we continue to face the realities of climate change and environmental degradation, let’s remember the message these ads share: Every action counts, and together, we can build a greener tomorrow.

We’ll be back with more wonderful ads for you. Till then, stay tuned!