# Digital dependency and screen time mitigation in Italy

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/digital-dependency-and-screen-time-mitigation-in-italy
> Updated: 2026-10-30T23:17:33.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 3.

Data indicates high levels of digital dependency among the Italian population, with 90% of residents reporting they use smartphones to combat boredom. Research shows that 46% of Italians spend more time scrolling than intended, and 77% use devices within 30 minutes of sleep. Psychological impacts include increased anxiety or stress for 40% of respondents, while 39% report that smartphone use prevents mental relaxation.

In response to these trends, a month-long pilot project titled “A tavola senza schermi” (At the table without screens) has launched in Sardinia. Supported by the regional guarantor for childhood and adolescence, Anna Cau, and the hospitality association Fipe Confcommercio Sardegna, the initiative involves 15 restaurants in cities such as Cagliari, Nuoro, Sassari, and Olbia.

Rather than implementing bans, participating establishments utilize a voluntary “disconnection pact.” Families are provided with “meeting kits” or “encounter sets” containing games, coloring materials, and educational brochures designed with support from the Italian Federation of Pediatricians. Guests are encouraged to store mobile phones and tablets in pockets or designated baskets to facilitate face-to-face communication. Experts suggest the project aims to mitigate risks to language development, sleep, and emotional regulation in children, while protecting minors from inappropriate digital content. If the pilot is successful, the initiative may be expanded across the region.

## Claims

- Fifteen restaurants in Sardinia are participating in the “A tavola senza schermi” pilot program. (reported by 5 sources)
- The pilot program is initially scheduled to last for one month. (reported by 5 sources)
- Guests are asked to store mobile phones and tablets in pockets or in baskets. (reported by 5 sources)
- Participating restaurants provide encounter sets with games and colored pencils for families. (reported by 5 sources)
- The project was developed by the island's hospitality association and Anna Cau. (reported by 5 sources)
- Participation in the initiative is voluntary. (reported by 5 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-30: Sardinia launches pilot program to reduce screen use in restaurants

Sardinia has launched a month-long pilot program in 15 restaurants to encourage families to put away mobile devices and engage in face-to-face conversation using provided analog games and activities.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sardinia-launches-pilot-program-to-reduce-screen-use-in-restaurants

### 2026-10-28: Sardinia launches pilot project to reduce screen use in restaurants

A pilot project in Sardinia involves 15 restaurants encouraging families to swap smartphones for games and conversation to combat excessive digital use during meals.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sardinia-launches-experiment-to-limit-childrens-smartphone-use-in-restaurants

### 2026-10-28: Digital dependency trends impact Italian residents and families

Studies show 90% of Italians use smartphones to combat boredom, prompting Sardinian restaurants to launch a “no-screen” dining initiative to encourage family connection.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-dependency-trends-impact-italian-residents-and-families

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Cite as: Digital dependency and screen time mitigation in Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/digital-dependency-and-screen-time-mitigation-in-italy