TOKYO – The assembly of a central Japan city on Sept 22 passed an ordinance that recommends all residents limit their use of smartphones, video game consoles and other digital devices to two hours a day outside of work and school, though there will be no penalties.
The ordinance enacted in Toyoake in Aichi prefecture comes amid
concerns over the impact of excessive technology exposure
and is believed to be the first of its kind in Japan.
It is slated to come into effect on Oct 1.
While recognising the necessity of smartphones, tablets and other digital devices, the ordinance warns that overuse of video streaming could have harmful effects, including sleep deprivation and reduced family interaction.
The ordinance called for elementary school children to refrain from using smartphones after 9pm and junior high school students and older to do so after 10pm, stating that “sufficient sleep is essential for physical and mental growth” for all children under 18.
The ordinance urged guardians to set household rules for device use, with the city promising to establish a system in which it receives consultations from parents. KYODO NEWS
JapanSmartphonesChildren and youth
AloJapan.com