Regulating the physical availability of alcohol

Abstract

Abstract This chapter reviews the scientific evidence on limiting the physical availability of beverage alcohol as an approach to reducing alcohol consumption and problems. It focuses on the nature of the regulatory systems used to manage alcohol sales and reviews the literature on restrictions relating to when, where, and to whom alcohol can be sold. Studies of restrictions on alcohol availability support the conclusion that such strategies can contribute to the reduction of alcohol problems. The best available evidence comes from studies of changes in retail availability, including reductions in the hours and days of sale, limits on the number of alcohol outlets, and restrictions on retail access to alcohol for young people. These studies consistently show that restrictions on availability are associated with reductions in both alcohol use and alcohol-related problems, although effectiveness can vary, depending on contexts, drinking cultures, and enforcement levels.