Pollution: Noise Pollution

Noise Pollution

What it is?

Sound pollution, also known as environmental noise, is the propagation of noise with harmful impact on the activity of human or animal life.

Why is caused?

The source of outdoor noise worldwide is mainly caused by machines, transport and transportation systems.

Poor urban planning may give rise to noise pollution, side-by-side industrial and residential buildings can result in noise pollution in the residential areas. The main sources of noise in residential area are loud music and loud barking by domestic dogs. It can also be loud talking or shouting by humans although this last is less persistent. Noise pollution associated with household electricity generators is an emerging environmental degradation in many developing nations.

Human Health

Noise pollution affects both health and behavior. Unwanted sound (noise) can damage psychological and physiological health. Noise pollution can cause hypertension, high stress levels, tinnitus, hearing loss, sleep disturbances, and other harmful effects.

Noise Control

Noise from roadways and other urban factors can be mitigated by urban planning and better desing of roads. Roadway noise can be reduced by the use of noise barriers, limitation of vehicle speeds, alteration of roadway surface texture, limitation of heavy vehicles, use of traffic controls that smooth vehicle flow to reduce braking and acceleration, and tire design.

Aircraft noise can be reduced by using quieter jet engines. Altering flight paths and time of day runway has benefitted residents near airports.