We could define noise pollution as exposure to excessive environmental sounds, harmful to human health and the environment. Its main causes are traffic, industrial activities, social events and public transport. All these sources generate sound waves that exceed the levels acceptable to the human ear, and which in the long run can lead to unpleasant consequences, such as hearing loss.
L’noise pollutiona form of environmental pollution that city dwellers probably don’t pay much attention to, is characterized by the excessive presence of unwanted sounds in the environment. Contrary to what one might think, it is not without consequences. On the contrary. Its effects can negatively impact human health and the environment in general. Let’s see what causes it and what its consequences are.
Noise pollution, what is it?
What is meant by noise pollution? it is soon said: it is a noise that disturbs. And it can be either continuous or intermittent. According to the definition given by National Geographic by which is meant “any unwanted or disturbing sound that affects the health and well-being of humans and other organisms”.
The range of sounds that the human ear can perceive are described by frequency of sound (measured in Hertz) and from the intensity, in decibels. As for the first, the absolute limits of human hearing fall within the range of 20 to 20,000 Hz (although our hearing is particularly sensitive in the range of 2,000 – 5,000 Hz). As for their intensity, sounds above 85 dB can be harmful in case of prolonged exposure.
Noise pollution is an invisible danger but one to which we are all exposed on a continuous or occasional basis. And it also has worrying consequences, such as hearing loss induced by noise. In “less serious” cases, you may experience sleep disturbances or stress, but also hypertension or heart disease. And even children are not exempt.
The causes of noise pollution
Good, but what causes noise pollution? Common sources include motor vehicle traffic (including public transport), industrial activities, social events and loud music.
Il traffic vehicular traffic is one of the main causes of noise pollution in urban areas, and is due to the constant hum of engines, the noise of braking and horns that accompany those who are on the road not only throughout the day, but often also part of the night. Its effect is increased by the crowded streets (even of people) and particularly chaotic intersections. Staying on the subject, it is also fueled by the public transport. Trains and buses, especially in densely populated areas, do their part.
Another cause of noise pollution lies in the industrial activities: in particular in machinery and equipment used in factories and plants that operate without adequate noise reduction measures. Even the social events are a source of noise: think of concerts, parties and public demonstrations. The loud music It becomes a nuisance both outside and inside buildings, when it interferes with daily activities and rest.
When does music become noise pollution?
When played or played at excessive volumes, that is, when it exceeds the limits of exposure to sound that are safe for human hearing, those beyond which it can cause damage to hearing and disturb the public peace. In general, we know that sounds start from the 80 dB (such as those deriving from traffic) can cause the first damage to hearing. The decibels corresponding to the music that is listened to in a disco or at a concert often exceed 90.
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Source: www.greenstyle.it
