Noise pollution human impact

Noise pollution is something that everyone is exposed to, yet most people know nothing about it. It is defined as “annoying or harmful noise (as of automobiles or jet airplanes) in an environment” (Merriam-Webster). Just because you cannot see it does not mean it’s not there.

This type of pollution exists in the water as well. The sounds of boats, jet skis and especially sonar are littering the ocean. Marine animals communicate by sound, and their calls can be masked by the human noises that are present. The anthropogenic noises are also extremely loud and stress out the organisms in the water.

 

Who does this affect?

Birds- some birds cannot hear mating calls over the sound of human-created (anthropogenic) noises

Bats- bats can have difficulty finding prey with echo location in noisy areas

You!- exposure to excessive noise can be linked to higher stress levels, high blood pressure, anxiety, hearing loss

 

 

What can be done about this?

minimize the pollution itself–

  • quieter cars like electric or hybrids
  • turn down music volume and bass levels
  • limit usage of boats
  • limit usage of boats in densely populated marine areas

 

minimize your exposure–

  • wear noise cancelling headphones or ear plugs
  • use a white noise machine to mask the harsh noises
  • avoid noisy areas such as cities or areas that are under construction
  • highway barriers

 

how to make your home more sound-proof-

  • add an area rug to tile and hardwood floors
  • hang thick tapestries or canvases on the walls
  • soundproofing tiles can be used for more extreme results