Noise pollution is unwanted or excessive sound. It comes from traffic, construction, aircraft, industrial equipment, and loud neighbors. Unlike air or water pollution, noise leaves no residue. But it harms health. Chronic exposure raises stress hormones, disrupts sleep, and increases the risk of heart disease. The World Health Organization estimates that noise contributes to thousands of premature deaths each year in Europe alone.

Wildlife suffers too. Birds change their songs to be heard over traffic. Whales alter their calls when ship noise drowns them out. Bats avoid noisy areas, reducing their hunting grounds. Some species abandon habitats altogether. The effects ripple through ecosystems.

Solutions exist. Quieter road surfaces, electric vehicles, and better building insulation reduce exposure. Zoning laws keep noisy activities away from homes. Curfews limit construction hours. Aircraft routing can shift flight paths. Noise barriers along highways help nearby residents. The problem is often invisible, which makes it easy to ignore. Measuring and mapping noise makes it easier to address.

Common sources

• Road traffic
• Aircraft
• Construction
• Industrial machinery
• Neighborhood and commercial noise