Noise Mapping

Noise Mapping is the process of creating geospatial representations of environmental noise levels across an area, showing how sound from transportation, industrial, commercial, and recreational sources propagates through the landscape. Noise maps display predicted or measured sound levels using color-coded contours, typically in decibels (dB), enabling planners and regulators to identify areas where noise exposure exceeds health-based guidelines. Computation follows standardized methods like ISO 9613 and CNOSSOS-EU, which model how noise propagates from sources through the environment, accounting for distance attenuation, ground absorption, atmospheric conditions, building reflection, and barrier shielding. Input data includes traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, rail operations, flight paths, and industrial source characteristics combined with 3D terrain and building models in GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation.... Applications include EU Environmental Noise Directive compliance, which requires member states to produce strategic noise maps for major cities and transport corridors. Land use planningLand Use PlanningLand Use Planning is the systematic process of evaluating and allocating land resources to meet community needs for h... uses noise maps to establish buffer zones between noise sources and sensitive receptors like hospitals, schools, and residences. Noise barrier design optimizes wall height and placement to maximize noise reduction for affected properties. Health impact assessment correlates noise exposure with outcomes like sleep disturbance, cardiovascular disease, and learning impairment to prioritize mitigation investments.