Name: How advertising influences waste – and what we can do about it
Start: 2025-11-20T17:00:00+00:00
End: 2025-11-20T20:00:00+00:00
Location: Portland Building

$How advertising influences waste \u2013 and what we can do about it$

Explore how advertising drives overconsumption. An evening of talks, public discussion, and an art exhibition.
About this Event

Join the University of Portsmouth’s Revolution Plastics Institute for an evening of thought-provoking discussion on how advertising shapes the way we consume, and what that means for efforts to reduce waste.

As pressure grows to reduce single-use products and rethink our consumption habits, campaigners argue that tackling the cultural forces behind overconsumption, especially the persuasive pull of advertising, is key.

For further details, contact [email protected]

Event line up

Explore Billboard Dystopia from 5pm — a satirical billboard artwork by Adfree Cities made from recycled electronic waste.

Short talks from researchers, campaigners, and community organisers, including:

Dr Kate Whitman — Introduction from the Revolution Plastics Institute
Dr Matthew Anderson — What’s the difference between circular and linear economies?
Dr Karen Middleton — The influence of advertising on overconsumption
Clare Seek — Portsmouth Repair Café and community action
Eve Warlow (Everyday Plastics) — Greenwashing and consumer awareness
Dr Mick Hayes — Advertising and circularity during times of crisis
Nicola Wilks (Adfree Cities) — Community action and inner city advertising
Lizzie Rose (Curious Earth & Portsmouth Young Greens) — Can local action overcome national inertia?

Panel discussion and public Q&A

Refreshments provided (tea and coffee)

Free entry — open to all

This event is part of Screens, Spaces, and Sustainability: Is Advertising Compatible with the Circular Economy?, a wider programme of free exhibitions and workshops running at the University of Portsmouth Business School from 3–20 November.

Please book your place.