Strategies for Addressing Noise

In my final dissertation chapter, I examined available strategies for addressing noise in urban environments. When I was learning about common noise strategies used by communities and governments, I conceptualized different approaches into two high-level categories, based on what they were addressing: either changing a sound source itself/the physical environment for receiving sound; or reshaping human behavior/choices, whether through informational efforts or through incident- or occurrence-based approaches like noise complaints or monitoring.

The strategies I examined were especially applicable to noise from neighborhood or commercial sources which are often points of conflict between residents and between residents and businesses. However, I also considered strategies that apply to sound sources like traffic, airplanes, or construction. Many common approaches to noise issues, like updates to noise complaint processes or comprehensive noise mapping, are most likely to be implemented at the city or municipal level. However, I also point to approaches that citizen groups or communities might consider independently. If you would like to read more of my work on strategies for managing noise and sound, please reach out!