Europe has permitted this openly but recently has tried to come to terms with the damage and health issues it causes.
This is one of the ways that I think that the US leads the world: public safety and health code regulations.
America had its problems and had them exposed in a number of ways in the 20th century (mostly the first half). "The Jungle" led to improvements in the slaughterhouse. The Coconut Grove fire led to improved fire codes and exits (China recently had a problem with this in a cyber cafe fire).
There is a stigma (sometimes deserved, sometimes not) around the world that "tap" water is not safe/proper to drink. Here in America we have no such concerns that we will be puking in 2 hours or will be taking in horrible toxins (including lead).
Even in the area of race relations. The rest of the world looked at us and said "why can't you get along". Now England, Germany, and other European countries are seeing economic refugees come to take public assistance and claim "political" asylum.
Italy elects porn stars (multiple) to their ruling class and have strong support for Musselini's grandaughter to seek office. < /rant >