Noise Pollution Solutions

Noise pollution is defined as the generation of unwelcome and displeasing sound in the environment. Among the various sources of noise pollution, automobiles, aircraft and other transport systems contribute the maximum sound production. Hence, we can say that the root cause of noise pollution is transportation machines. Other noise pollution causes include industrial machinery, office equipment, vehicular horns, car alarms, sirens and audio speakers. Noise pollution affects humans and animals both in their behavioral and physiological health.

If you are residing in a noisy area, where you cannot rest and relax properly, then you are at a high risk of developing certain health conditions. Some of the noise pollution effects include fatigue, stress, restlessness, irritation, distraction, sleep disorder and hearing loss. Recent studies also suggest that unwanted noise exacerbates hypertension and cardiovascular symptoms. Considering these negative impacts of unwanted noise on human health, it is high time that we should enforce noise pollution solutions.

Solutions for Noise Pollution

Unlike other types of environmental issues such as air and water pollution, noise or sound is transient or short-lived. Thus, once you stop generating sound, the noise pollution problem is solved. The main objective behind noise pollution solutions is to absorb, contain and cancel the source of noise. The following is a list of the effective ways to harness noise pollution that will help in combating the various health effects of noise pollution.

Automobile Servicing: As mentioned already, automobiles account to the highest production of noise. Regular servicing of the vehicles is an effectual measure to lower the intensity of sound produced by them. If all the automobile owners take up this step, then there will be significant reduction in noise pollution.

Machine Quality: Similar to vehicles, the quality of machines should be optimized, so as to reduce sound production. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than 30 million Americans are exposed to noise pollution in the workplaces. Lubrication of the machinery and servicing should be done to minimize noise generation.

Soundproof Homes: Soundproof doors and windows can be installed to block unwanted noise from outside. You can also opt for walls with sound control material. These soundproofing options are of utmost importance for complete relaxation, especially if you are staying in a crowded city area.

Tree Plantation: Planting bushes and trees in and around sound generating sources is another effective solution for noise pollution. Dense shrubs and trees block sound passage, thus avoiding disturbance to the surrounding areas. You can also plant trees around your residential area to live peacefully.

Loudspeaker Prohibition: Using loudspeaker in public areas is another major cause of noise pollution. This should be banned at any cost for the welfare of the people. Strict laws should be imposed against those who violate and play loudspeakers in crowded areas and public places.

Factory Location: Industrial noise pollution is not different from other pollution types in causing health hazards on humans and animals. Thus, factories and industries should be located in far off places from the residential areas. Installation of sound detectors will help in analyzing the sound frequencies on a regular basis.

White Noise Machine: The latest technology for overcoming the effects of noise pollution is using white noise machine. It is a device meant for converting unbearable noise into pleasant sound. A white noise machine is placed between the source of noise and the receptor. It produces soft sound like that of a waterfall, fan and soft music.

Apart from the above tips, there are certain noise pollution solutions that can be implemented for reducing noise. City and/or urban management should be done with long term planning, along with an aim to reduce noise pollution. Most of us are responsible for causing noise pollution. Hence, social awareness programs should be taken up on a global scale to educate the public about the causes and effects of noise pollution.