2-Hour Cap on Use of Digital Devices

In Japan, the assembly of one city in central Honshu Island on September 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 October 01. 

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 09:00 PM and junior high school students and older to do so after 10:00 PM, 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. 

Celtic battled their way to a deserved point in their Europa League campaign opener yesterday with an evenly matched Red Star Belgrade. TBH, both teams hardly impressed.

Half-time substitute Kelechi Iheanacho calmly slotted the ball high into the net to give the Scottish champions the lead in the 55th minute. And the Serbian side hauled themselves level in a packed box ten minutes later. 

Next, Celtic host Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday before continuing their European push at home to Sporting Braga next Thursday.