ENT8: Improved understanding on noise effects
Status and results
The activities in the Action Group have been put on hold. |
Background and contents
Transport noise is considered the greatest environmental nuisance in Europe. Policy-makers and researchers from the ERA-NET TRANSPORT member countries can greatly benefit from cooperation, in the sense of both an improved understanding of the fundamentals of noise generation on the part of various means of transportation and a more effective implementation of noise-reducing solutions.
Approximately 20 % of the European population are disturbed by the noises of their environment, and more particularly by the noise of the surface transports. The quantification of the noise is the approach currently privileged by the authorities. It is essential to develop relevant indicators, diagnoses, reliable methods of measurement. However, the qualitative aspects characterizing the felt embarrassment are also to consider: measurements taken expensive and of a limited effectiveness lead to frustrations, dissatisfactions, even of the inequalities difficult to attenuate or remove.
Noise research within the ERA-NET TRANSPORT should thus focus on improving the understanding of the impact of noise (and noise reduction tools) on citizens. The new European environmental noise directive requires all member states to analyse noise in bigger cities. Considering existing political constraints and the further steps necessary in the area of noise legislation, it is important to identify and focus on the most economical and efficient solutions for decreasing the population’s exposure to noise.
Participating Countries
France (leader)
Germany
Norway
Poland
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