Noise pollution ranks as the second-largest environmental risk factor for disease, following air pollution. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels has been linked to sleep disturbances, depression, hearing issues, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. The effects are even more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing chronic conditions. Additionally, intense and persistent environmental noise impacts children’s cognitive functions, hindering their learning abilities and concentration.
A 2018 study in Athens revealed that 52% of the population was exposed to noise levels of 65–70 decibels during the day, and 30% to levels exceeding 70–75 decibels. At night, 49% of the population experienced noise levels of 60–65 decibels, with 3.2% exposed to levels of 70–75 decibels. These figures contrast with the recommended limits set by the European Union (55 dB during the day and 50 dB at night) and the World Health Organization (53 dB during the day and 45 dB at night).
The auditory landscape of daily life in most Athens neighborhoods can easily drive residents to despair, exacerbated during nighttime hours by loud music from cafés and bars and the voices of patrons. Noise pollution in Athens remains a chronic problem, confronting its residents daily. However, as highlighted in a recent report by the European Court of Auditors, Greece has failed to submit data on noise level mapping to the European Environment Agency (EEA) for over a decade, in violation of Directive 2002/49/EC. Since 2002, all EU countries have been required to submit strategic noise maps to the EEA every five years.
In the United States, 18% of Americans use white noise devices or applications, while nearly half rely on fans, sound generators, or sleep headphones emitting white noise in their bedrooms at night. The term “white noise” generally refers to soundscapes encompassing various frequencies. Pink noise resembles the sound of gentle rain, brown noise resembles the hum of an airplane, and true white noise mimics radio wave static.
Urban planning should prioritize traffic organization and incentives and infrastructure to discourage car usage in favor of public transportation or cycling. Enhancing building insulation, enforcing speed limits, and using noise-absorbing asphalt are highly effective measures. It is essential to preserve and, where possible, expand quiet neighborhoods, avoiding their destruction in the name of urban development. This approach not only mitigates noise levels but also positively impacts air pollution, enhances citizens’ health, reduces the risk of traffic accidents, and promotes physical activity.
Technologically, a comprehensive system could rely on noise monitoring stations equipped with sound sensors that continuously record data and are interconnected via the Internet of Things (IoT) to transmit real-time data. Additionally, employing machine learning (AI) techniques could enable the development of noise prediction algorithms and optimize noise reduction policies.
Konstantinos Kouskoukis
Professor of Dermatology – Lawyer
B’ Vice President GDHI
President Hellenic Academy of Thermal Medicine
President World Academy of Chinese & Complimentary Medicine