Annoyance caused by environmental noise: Elements for evidence-based noise policies

Because effects of environmental noise do not require extremely high or long exposures, they occur, with different degrees of intensity, in a substantial part of the world population, especially in areas with a dense population and dense transportation networks. As a consequence, noise is a global issue that continues to detract from sustainable development. This article attempts to contribute to evidence-based noise policies by providing a review and systematization of noise-effects modeling and findings. The results presented can be used in noise abatement policy to find the best practical ways of reducing noise-induced effects through the reduction of noise exposure. At present, it is possible to calculate noise maps showing the exposures to noise in residential areas. With the relationships between exposure and effects as presented here, these can be translated into estimates of the number of people affected. Estimates of effects can be made on the basis of existing noise exposures, but also on the basis of scenarios for future noise levels, so that the consequences of different scenarios can be explored and decisions with respect to noise abatement measures can be optimized. Such an evidence-based approach may be instrumental in reducing the worldwide burden of environmental noise.