People, Projects, and Programs

摘要

Many countries have graphic warning labels on the dangers of smoking. Now a Canadian activist group wants similar labels on gas pumps. Toronto lawyer Robert Shirkey has launched the group Our Horizon, whose goal is to get municipalities in Ontario, Canada, to create a series of messages that would fit on the back of pumps that motorists could read while they fill up. A typical label: "Warning: The gasoline you're pumping into your car contributes to smog which may cause asthma and other respiratory problems among children." Ultimately, the goal would be to have the labels appear nationwide, but Our Horizon is starting locally. "Gas pumps are pretty standardized," Shirkey notes. "A lot of them already have what's called a nozzle topper ... a three-inch by three-inch display surface that's intended for advertising. It's a perfect spot for a warning label." Our Horizon believes the labels will result in individuals making changes, whether it's opting for a more fuel-efficient vehicle, or leaving theirkeys at home and taking public transit or bicycling. The concept is still being considered by lawmakers in the city of Toronto and province of Ontario.