Sound of silence? How IoT tech will help solve urban noise pollution
Noise pollution in urban landscapes challenges the wellbeing of populations. Research has drawn links between long-term exposure and variety of health effects, such as poor-quality sleep, damage to our cardiovascular and metabolic systems, and potentially even cognitive impairment in children, according to a report by the European Environment Agency (EEA). The EEA estimates that environmental noise contributes to 48,000 new cases of ischaemic heart disease a year as well as 12,000 premature deaths in Europe alone. They also estimate that 22 million people suffer chronic high annoyance from noise pollution.
From traffic congestion to construction activities, the sources are diverse in nature. However, the advent of smart city technologies, particularly Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, presents an innovative approach to monitor and address noise pollution. In this blog, we'll explore how smart cities are leveraging IoT technology to target and solve noise pollution, fostering quieter and more liveable urban environments.
IoT tech and addressing noise pollution
Smart cities are deploying advanced sensors and IoT devices to monitor noise levels in real-time across various locations. For example, bettair have deployed advanced sensors in Barcelona. These sensors can be strategically placed throughout the city to continuously collect data on ambient noise. The information collected is then processed, providing city officials with a better understanding of noise patterns for decision-making, and identifying hotspots that require attention.
The data collected through IoT-enabled noise monitoring is not just about identifying noise levels; the data collected is so we can derive meaningful insights. Data analytics tools can process the information to identify trends, peak hours of noise pollution, and specific sources contributing to elevated noise levels. This enables city planners and policymakers to make informed decisions on implementing targeted interventions.
IoT and public awareness
IoT technology can be harnessed to increase public awareness and engage the community in noise reduction using real-time noise data. Citizens can access information about noise levels in their neighbourhoods through mobile apps or public displays, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and encouraging behavioural changes.
Urban design
Noise-responsive urban design can also be facilitated by IoT technology. By analysing IoT-generated noise data, city planners can make informed decisions about urban design and zoning. This includes creating sound barriers, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly zones. Integrating noise considerations into urban planning fosters a more harmonious coexistence between the urban environment and its residents.
IoT Innovators
Smart cities are collaborating with IoT and technology innovators, such as bettair to enhance noise monitoring capabilities. In future this can include the development of advanced sensors, machine learning algorithms, and predictive analytics to anticipate and address potential noise pollution issues before they escalate.
Moving towards more liveable and sustainable urban spaces, monitoring noise in real-time, employing data analytics for informed decision-making, these cities are enhancing the overall quality of life for their residents.
In the future, the sounds of silence may become a defining feature of urban landscapes.
Search the blog
Recent posts
Categories
Archive
- Mar 2024
- Feb 2024
- Jan 2024
- Jun 2023
- Apr 2023
- Feb 2023
- Jan 2022
- Sep 2022
- Jun 2022
- Feb 2022
- Nov 2021
- Oct 2021
- Sep 2021
- Aug 2021
- Jul 2021
- May 2021
- Apr 2021
- Mar 2021
- Feb 2021
- Jan 2020
- Sep 2020
- Mar 2020
- Jan 2020
- Apr 2019
- Feb 2019
- Jan 2019
- Dec 2018
- Nov 2018
- Oct 2018
- Sep 2018
- Jun 2018
- Feb 2018
- Nov 2017
- Oct 2017
- Jul 2017
- May 2017
- Mar 2017
- Feb 2017
- Jan 2016
- Aug 2016
- Jul 2016
- Jun 2016