Here is a short abstract from a study by CAP.A.C.E. ANTI GRAFFITI DIVISION focusing on the problem of graffiti, not only in Italy but also in the whole of Europe. We believe that the following text will help you to better understand the problem of graffiti removal and its impact on society.

A detailed survey conducted among citizens, authorities and private companies by the Graffiti Investigative Committee of the City of London in May 2002 revealed the opinion according to which the presence of graffiti in a certain area "conveys the perception that the area is not safe". There is evidence confirming that the presence of graffiti increases the presence of vandalism of different levels.

Though the above-mentioned example might seem too simple, it mirrors a very common psychological reaction which is very easily explained by the so-called "Broken window theory", which was born in the United States at the beginning of the 80's. This theory acknowledges a possible relationship between vandalism, fear of crime and crime increase (if you want to know more about this issue, pelase visit the Associazione Italiana Antigraffiti website. CAP.A.C.E. srl is a supporting member of the Association).

An anti-graffiti campaign In Malmo, Sweden, was based on this very theory and it came to the following conclusion:

"Illegal graffiti are the visual representation of an indifferent and absent society, where small crimes lead to bigger crimes. Inevitably, if the problem is not timely addressed through a pragmatic strategy, those writing graffiti will be even more encouraged in perpetrating their crime and the problem shall become so relevant that it will be impossible for local administrations to cope with it, with particular reference to the economic aspect". 

As for public transport, a survey conducted in the United Kingdom on the perception of safety from crime showed that fear of crime dramatically increases in those, for instance, waiting for a train or a bus when they find themselves waiting in station platforms or bus shelters that are covered by graffiti or other forms of vandalism.

Conclusions

A simple broken window, walls covered with graffiti and writings, therefore, are not only an aesthetic problem but aspects that affect the citizens' quality of life and also very effective deterrents against investments and commercial activities in general.

Starting form these conclusions, it is therefore no wonder that most European cities invest millions of Euros each year on graffiti removal and on specific and technologically advanced antigraffiti products.