Relationship between Urban Noise and the Health of Users of Public Spaces—A Case Study in Vitoria, ES, Brazil

Abstract

Urban populations today are exposed to high levels of noise, which may cause discomfort and lead to health problems. Most of these noises are traffic-generated; therefore, this study focuses on evaluating the soundscapes of urban open spaces to determine its importance for the health of the citizen, since such spaces can function as noise attenuators. The methodology of this study involved a literature review, computer simulations and interviews with users of the aforementioned open spaces. The case study was conducted in an urban area in the city of Vitória, state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The results indicate that, in the period of this study, traffic noise dissipated through open spaces but noise levels still exceeded the maximum allowable levels established by regulations. Nevertheless, the population proved to be largely unaware of the noise. It should be pointed out that the areas under study are used predominantly as recreational spaces for health and wellbeing activities. The findings of this study may serve to underpin urban planning policies that encourage the inclusion of open spaces, especially in areas of high urban density where the transport system consists of motor vehicles, in order to help control urban noise.

Urban Noise as an Environmental Impact Factor in the Urban Planning Process

“…In the two areas under study, the most frequent complaints about the effects of urban noise were irritability and poor concentration (Figure 10). These results are comparable to those found by Paneto et al [11], which addressed the theme "Relationship between urban noise and the health of users of public spaces…." Paneto et al [11] applied a questionnaire to 375 people, and the main reactions to noise exposure were as follows: irritability (58%), difficulty to concentrate (42%), sleeping disorders (20%) and headaches (20%).…”

Assessment of Noise Pollution along Two Main Avenues in Curitiba, Brazil

“…Reference [2] points out that "The acoustic quality of a city depends not only on the absence of noise but also on the presence of quietness and liveliness." Similarly, in [3] discuss "The importance of public spaces in lowering urban traffic noise. Acoustic simulations indicated that traffic-related noise is dissipated in open spaces, such as public squares."…”

“…Acoustic simulations indicated that traffic-related noise is dissipated in open spaces, such as public squares." Moreover, according to [3], public parks are places of quietness and well-being for urban populations. Reference [2] also emphasize that the question is not whether a city is noisy or not, but rather whether its residents have access to quiet spaces, i.e., a quiet house and neighborhood, as well as quiet urban spaces.…”

“…Reference [2] also emphasize that the question is not whether a city is noisy or not, but rather whether its residents have access to quiet spaces, i.e., a quiet house and neighborhood, as well as quiet urban spaces. An example of such spaces is public parks, as indicated [3].…”

“…In Germany, [4] state that: "1) The main source of noise in Germany comes from traffic noise; 2) 70% of Germans feel annoyed by noise; 3) Nighttime noise as low as 40 dB(A) can lead to health problems; 4) 10% of homes are exposed to equivalent sound pressure levels, Leq, higher than 66 -70 dB(A)".…”