Noise Pollution: Types, Causes and Effects

As societies become increasingly industrialised and urbanised, Noise Pollution, also known as Sound Pollution, has emerged as a significant environmental issue. It has wide-ranging implications for human health, wildlife, and the environment. This article aims to study in detail Noise Pollution (Sound Pollution), its major sources, effects, control measures, and other related aspects.

About Noise Pollution (Sound Pollution)

• According to the Indian Government, sound levels above 50dB and 40dB during the day and night are considered Noise Pollution.
• According to the Indian Government, sound levels above 50dB and 40dB during the day and night are considered Noise Pollution in India.
• Noise Pollution, also called Sound Pollution, is a prominent type of Environmental Pollution.

What is Noise?

• Any sound that creates discomfort to the recipient is termed Noise.
• Noise as a potent menace is measured in terms of decibels (dB).
  • However, the health hazard is a matter of Perceived Noise level in decibels (PNdB).
• WHO (World Health Organization) has prescribed an optimum noise level of 45 dB during the day and 35 dB at night.
  • Anything above 80 dB is hazardous.
• The table below gives the noise intensity in some of the common activities.

Source	Intensity
Breathing	10 dB
Winds of trees	20 dB
Quiet Conversation	20-30 dB
Radio Music	50-60 dB
Loud Conversation	60 dB
Traffic Noise	60-90 dB
Vacuum Cleaner	80 dB
Aircraft Noise	90-120 dB
Motor Cycle	105 dB
Thunder Storm	110 dB
Jet Engine	140 dB
Space Vehicle Launch	140-170 dB

Types of Noise Pollution

The classification of noise pollution consists of:

• Transportation noise: The whole variety of modes of transport like cars, planes, trains, and motorcycles causes it; hence it is the most frequent source of noise in urban areas.

• Industrial Noise: Noise pollution of very high intensity comes from heavy machinery, the worked-up, and industrial processes.

• Construction Noise: Activities associated with building, mining, and the development of infrastructure give rise to this noise.

• Neighborhood Noise: This is formed by sounds coming from appliances in the house, loudspeakers, parties, and musicians.

• Recreational Noise: Happens at public events, nightlife, and entertainment activities.

All the types mentioned above impact human health leading to hearing loss, stress, hypertension, and sleep disturbances as well as they might cause cardiovascular problems.

Sources of Noise Pollution

• All human activities contribute to noise pollution to varying extent.
• Noise pollution is more common in urban areas due to a higher concentration of population, industries, and activities such as transportation.
• Like other pollutants, noise is a by-product of industrialisation, urbanisation and modern civilisation.
• Variety of sources of noise pollution can be categorised into two types – Indoor Sources and Outdoor Sources.

Indoor Sources

• The noise produced by radio, television, generators, electric fans, air coolers, air conditioners, different home appliances, family conflicts, etc, makes up indoor sources of noise pollution.

Outdoor Sources

• Indiscriminate use of loudspeakers, industrial activities, automobiles, traffic, aeroplanes and activities such as those during religious, social and cultural functions.
• In rural areas, farm machines and pump sets are the main sources of noise pollution. During festivals, marriages and many other occasions, the use of firecrackers contributes to noise pollution.
• Noise can also arise from natural sources like thunder.

Causes of Noise Pollution

• A variety of human activities and environmental factors cause noise pollution.
• Urbanisation and industrialisation are major contributors to traffic noise, including cars, buses, trains, and aeroplanes, creating constant background noise in cities.
• Construction activities, such as drilling, hammering, and heavy machinery use, also add to the noise levels. 4
• Industrial operations, especially in factories and power plants, produce high-decibel sounds that can harm nearby communities.
• Household appliances like washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and music systems contribute to indoor noise pollution.
• Additionally, public events, loudspeakers, and social gatherings increase noise pollution in both urban and rural settings.
• Lastly, natural events like thunderstorms or volcanic eruptions, though less frequent, also contribute to noise pollution.

Effects of Noise Pollution

• People exposed to noise levels reaching 110 dB may experience mental trauma, physical fatigue, deafness, hypertension and insomnia.
• Prolonged exposure to noise for a day alone may lead to severe mental disorientation and, in a few cases, result in violent behaviour.
• If noise exposure is not controlled, it may lead to permanent loss of hearing, miscarriage in pregnant ladies and coronary heart diseases.

Measures or Solutions to Control Noise Pollution

The pervasive noise pollution can be controlled only through cooperation between all the stakeholders, i.e. individuals, families, society and the Government. The following steps can be taken to control or minimise noise pollution:

• TVs, radio and other electronic gadgets should not be played at a high volume.
• Restricting the use of loudspeakers and amplifiers. For example, several states have protocols for maximum sound limits during the nighttime.
• The use of firecrackers, which are noisy and cause air pollution, should be restricted.
• Green belts are created through the plantation of trees along highways.
• Proper lubrication and timely maintenance of industrial machines and transport vehicles.
• Innovative designs and adequate maintenance of vehicles.
• Acoustic materials that can absorb sound energy can be used to interrupt the path of sound.
• Creating noise mounds, noise attenuation walls, well-maintained roads and smooth surfacing of roads can ensure noise abatement.
• Retrofitting locomotives, continuously welded rail tracks, the use of electric locomotives, or the deployment of quieter rolling stock will reduce train noises.
• Appropriate insulation and introduction of noise regulations for take-off and landing of aircraft.

Diseases Caused by Noise Pollution 

Disease/Health Issue	Description
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)	Permanent or temporary hearing impairment due to prolonged exposure to loud noise.
Hypertension	Elevated blood pressure caused by stress from continuous noise exposure.
Cardiovascular Diseases	Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and related ailments linked to noise-induced stress.
Sleep Disturbances	Insomnia, fatigue, and reduced sleep quality caused by noise interference.
Stress and Anxiety	Heightened stress levels and anxiety disorders due to constant or loud noise exposure.
Mental Health Disorders	Long-term exposure can lead to depression, irritability, and other psychological problems.
Cognitive Impairment	Reduced concentration, memory, and learning abilities, especially in children.
Reduced Immune Function	Stress from noise pollution can weaken the immune system, increasing disease susceptibility.

Conclusion

Noise Pollution is a growing concern with significant implications for health, environment, and quality of life. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach involving regulatory measures, technological innovations, and public awareness. By understanding the sources and impacts of noise pollution and implementing effective solutions, societies can work towards a quieter, healthier, and more sustainable future.

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