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Noise pollution, or sound pollution, is the propagation of noise or sound with potential harmful effects on humans and animals. The source of outdoor noise worldwide is mainly caused by machines, transport and propagation systems.
Noise pollution is a factor of environmental degradation that is often overlooked and typically seen as not having a significant effect, though traffic noise can contribute to numerous disturbances for wildlife. An increasing number of studies have been done on the effects of noise on wildlife.
Environmental noise can also convey a sense of liveliness in an area, which can be desirable. The adverse effects of noise exposure (i.e. noise pollution) could include: interference with speech or other 'desired' sounds, annoyance, sleep disturbance, anxiety, hearing damage and stress-related cardiovascular health problems. [3]
Cardiovascular health: Numerous studies have linked exposure to noise pollution to heart-health effects. “We now have a pretty robust body of evidence showing that noise is related to high blood ...
Six of the top ten noisiest cities in the U.S. are located on the East coast. Louisville ranks among the top 50 loudest places in the country.
A negative correlation was found between the noise intensity of an area and the probability that a long-eared owl will reside in that region. [11] Suggested explanations for this outcome are that hunting efficiency was diminished and communication was less effective. Noise pollution also affects conspecific communication.
Noise pollution has also altered avian communities and diversity. Noise can reduce reproductive success, minimize nesting areas, increase stress response, and reduce species abundance. [ 137 ] [ 132 ] Noise pollution can alter the distribution and abundance of prey species, which can then impact predator populations.
This sub-class of noise pollution or disturbance may produce a negative effect on a wide range of organisms. Variations in soundscapes as a result of natural phenomena and human endeavor may have wide-ranging ecological effects as many organisms have evolved to respond to acoustic cues that emanate primarily from undisturbed habitats.