A new national noise map indicates that 28% of Danish homes are exposed to noise levels that exceed 55 dB, particularly in cities. Noise can cause sleeping disorders, stress and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The socio-economic costs related to traffic noise in Denmark have been estimated as 5.9-8.7 billion DKK annually. A report by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency and the Road Directorate in 2004 presented ideas to help local authorities reduce the effects of road traffic noise. In planning for cities without noise pollution, it has been proposed that cities should be divided into four noise zones that can be assigned specific noise level requirements. These range from Zone A where noise levels may not exceed 45 dB to Zone D which consists of heavily noise polluted areas that are typically located near main roads. It is necessary to address noise at the source, at the area of distribution and at the receiving end using methods such as noise reducing pavements, traffic diversion, speed reductions, limiting heavy traffic access at night, vegetation and facade insulation. The organisation of work to reduce traffic noise using as many assets as possible, the financing of such projects, and the involvement of the public in the projects is discussed.
Abstract