environmental noise

Environmental noise, also known as noise pollution, refers to unwanted or excessive sound that can negatively impact human health, wildlife, and the environment. Sound is measured in decibels (dB), with levels above 120 dB causing pain. For context, a library is around 35 dB, while construction sites can reach 105 dB.1

Excessive noise can lead to hearing loss, increased blood pressure, anxiety, and fatigue. Wildlife is also affected, as noise can disrupt communication, navigation, and predator avoidance. Architectural acoustics focuses on designing spaces, like concert halls, to optimize sound quality for listeners, considering factors such as reverberation and sound absorption.12