(Adnkronos) – Maximum two hours a day in front of a smartphone screen outside of work or study hours. In Japan, in the city of Toyoake, in Aichi prefecture, they are trying to pass an ordinance with a ‘recommendation’ to this effect to all residents. Local media have pointed out that the text – which if approved would be the first in the Land of the Rising Sun with such limits for the use of smartphones and other electronic devices – does not, however, provide for sanctions.
The goal, explained the Kyodo agency, is to convince elementary school students not to use smartphones after 9 p.m. and everyone else to ‘abandon’ them after 10 p.m. to “ensure a good night’s rest”. The draft text acknowledges that smartphones, PCs and tablets are essential, but warns of the consequences of excessive use, and also provides for the municipal administration to work with schools and parents to promote the ‘healthy’ use of technology among young people. “With this ordinance we want to give people the opportunity to reflect on how they use smartphones,” said an official quoted by Kyodo. There is no shortage of criticism and controversy.
