Noise pollution occurs when we are exposed to excessively loud sounds in our surroundings. Sources are many and include vehicular traffic, railways, air transport, industrial and commercial activities and even meteorological phenomena.
- Health and environmental effects of noise pollution
- Policies and action strategies
- Acoustic solutions for rooms and lifestyles
Health and environmental effects of noise pollution
Noise pollution is a serious problem that requires both environmental and social attention and solutions; it affects us all, especially in urban and industrial areas.
Prolonged exposure to very loud sounds can lead to a number of health problems such as hearing damage acute, dizziness, ringing in the ears and temporary hearing loss. This can develop into chronic and often non-reversible disorders.
Noise pollution can influence the level of stress blood pressure and other body systems.
Also the environmental aspect which is often overlooked, is also influenced by acoustics.
The animals are very sensitive to loud and sudden sounds, which can disturb their feeding, breeding, communication and orientation behaviour.
For example, birds may be disturbed in their nesting and singing behaviour, and marine animals may be interfered with by the noise of ships and underwater activities.
Insects and amphibians can also be affected in their reproductive and foraging activities.
Policies and action strategies
European and Italian noise mitigation policies and strategies focus on theidentification and management of environmental noise levels.
The European Union has adopted the Environmental Noise Directive (END), which requires member states to collect data and develop noise maps and action plans for noise management every five years.
These plans must be developed in consultation with the interested public and aim to prevent and reduce noise pollution, as well as to preserve sound quality in areas where it is already good.
In Italy, standards on acoustic exposure in public, residential and work environments have been developed and updated over the years, also involving the Regions.
The acoustic zoning, in particular, is a technical and political instrument for spatial government that defines a correlation between noise limits and different land uses, classifying six categories according to population density, road and rail traffic, and commercial, craft or industrial activities.
In workplaces limit values for noise exposure are set and preventive measures are required if certain levels are exceeded. Noise risk assessment is mandatory and must be carried out regularly, with regular updates and appropriate training for workers.
Acoustic solutions for rooms and lifestyles
There are several companies offering a wide range of acoustics-related services to meet a variety of needs.
For example, some startups have specialised in offering acoustic testing and analysis services for various industrial applications; these include testing of noise and vibration levels.
Others focus on developing acoustic design solutions to improve sound quality in rooms, using rigid surfaces designed to absorb sound rather than reflect it. L’acoustic insulation opens up the market for a wide range of environments, including nurseries, coworking spaces and restaurants.
To limit and mitigate sound on an individual level, there are several practices that can be adopted. Such as the use of low-noise devices, such as household appliances and garden equipment designed to operate quietly.
Sound insulation such as the installation of double-glazed windows or the use of sound-absorbing materials, can help reduce the entry of external noise.
Adopting conscious behaviour, such as keeping the volume of music and television at reasonable levels and limiting the use of noisy instruments during the night, contributes to a quieter environment.
Choosing less noisy means of transport, such as the bicycle or electric car, can also have a significant positive impact on our lives.
Play for the planet!