Implementing and Sustaining Effective Alcohol‐Related Policies at the Local Level: Evidence, Challenges, and Next Steps

Abstract

Alcohol‐related problems are experienced most directly at the local level. There have been significant strides in evaluating locally based alcohol policies and prevention strategies. This article draws from this existing body of research to answer three questions: What is known about effective local interventions and policies? What are the main challenges facing local action on alcohol and how can those challenges be addressed? How can local action on alcohol be sustained? This article reviews evaluated local alcohol interventions and policies, focusing on several countries where these initiatives have been evaluated: for example, Australia, Canada, Finland, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The positive outcomes associated with community‐based initiatives are summarized and features of successful local action are identified. Although current research finds a number of positive outcomes of local alcohol interventions and policies, a number of challenges of this work remain; these challenges include providing adequate training, resources, and tools for local action; building local resource streams and coalitions to sustain expertise; sustaining long‐term commitment to monitor and evaluate the effects of policies; and addressing the vested interests of community stakeholders in alcohol policy efforts. Lessons learned and recommendations for future community‐based alcohol prevention initiatives are drawn from the findings and challenges of current work.