Recent studies on environmental noise caused by traffic, industrial and recreational activities have revealed that it can damage our health, prompting the need for more in-depth research on the topic.
The goal of the European Commission’s Environmental Noise Directive (END) is to achieve a common approach across the EU for the assessment and management of environmental noise to limit its harmful effects. Under the directive, countries must produce noise maps modelling noise exposure and action plans to tackle areas of high noise and preserve quiet areas.
Further information: Health effects of noise