Question

Briefly explain the following:

Noise pollution.

Answer 1

Noise pollution

1. Unwanted and disturbing sound is referred to as noise pollution.
2. It is caused by loudspeakers, vehicles, construction sites, machines used in the industries, etc.
3. Sound level is measured in decibels (dB). Noise pollution has a value of 80 dB and above.

Effects of noise pollution

1. A regular exposure to noise impairs hearing. It also damages the eardrum.
2. Long-term exposure to noise can cause anxiety and stress.
3. It also causes gastric problems and hypertension.
4. Headache, irritability, and sleeplessness are other side effects of noise pollution.

Abatement of noise pollution

1. Delimitation of acoustic zoning such as silent zone (50-40 dB), residential (55-45 dB), commercial (65-55 dB), and industrial (75-70 dB).
2. Use of earmuffs or cotton plugs is encouraged in a noisy environment.
3. Use of pressure horns is discouraged.
4. Green mufflers or growing 3-4 rows of trees along roads, residential areas, commercial buildings, industrial belts, etc. Green muffler is a great way to reduce noise pollution since the trees filter out the noise and prevent it to reach the ear of the people.