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Noise Pollutants

Noise pollution is different from other types of pollution. Once it develops, it envelops the environment entirely. When the noise stops, however, there are no remnants of the pollution, with the exception of the damage left behind in the people who experienced it. Noise pollution is experienced every day, especially in large cities, yet most people would never consider noise to be a pollutant.

  1. Definition

    • According to the Environmental Protection Agency, noise pollution is an "unwanted or disturbing sound." This term can be applied to many sounds we hear every day, yet noise pollution differs from regular annoyances because it leads to physical and emotional stress. When sounds are so loud, repetitive, or disturbing that they affect our quality of everyday life, they can be considered noise pollution. Some of the most common sources are the sounds that are produced by transportation, such as cars, trains and airplanes. Nearly any tedious sound could be considered noise pollution -- from a dog who barks nonstop to extremely loud music. Most towns and cities have ordinances addressing this type of disturbance, but exceptions are made for regular activities and services such as trash trucks and lawn mowers.

    Location

    • Noise pollution can develop anywhere, but is most commonly found in large cities and highly populated areas. In rural areas, noise pollution comes from construction, transportation, gardening equipment and other sounds.

    Effects

    • Noise pollution can cause stress, sleeplessness, illness and hearing damage. NIHL, or "noise induced hearing loss," is one of the most common forms of damage to a person's health. The most serious forms of NIHL are caused by frequent, constant or high exposure to noise pollution. Some people wear ear protection such as ear plugs or ear muffs to protect their hearing when they are regularly exposed to noise pollution.

    Prevention

    • Preventing noise pollution is difficult because it comes and goes at the drop of a hat, leaving hardly any trace. Measuring noise pollution is also difficult because it can only be measured by individual noises, not by multiple sounds in combination. It is extremely hard to determine how much noise is too much. Learn about your local noise ordinances and become aware of safe levels within your community.

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