Traffic noise tortures Lower Austria: Every third person affected!

Traffic noise tortures Lower Austria: Every third person affected!

Niederösterreich, Österreich - In Lower Austria, traffic noise has become a serious problem for the population. According to current numbers, around 522,000 people feel affected by noise, which 36 percent of the over 16 year olds in the region, so oe24.at. The majority of the noise complaints, such as 80 percent , goes back to car traffic. The noises of trucks and buses are particularly stressful, from which 157,000 people suffer, followed by 139,100 people by cars and 122.200 through mopeds and motorcycles.

Permanent noise not only causes discomfort, but can also bring serious health problems. One of the most common effects is sleep disorders up to serious diseases such as heart attacks . The concerns of the population are supported by the Verkehrsclub Austria (VCÖ), which demands that the speed limits to lower - to Tempo 30 in cities and Tempo 80 on country roads. These measures could help noticeably reduce the noise pollution.

The health consequences of noise

According to the [Federal Environment Agency] (https://www.umweltbundamt.de/daten/umwelt-gesheit/gesundheitrisiken- throughpower Laerm), noise is not only a disturbing element, but also a serious environmental problem. It affects people's well -being and can lead to various health problems. The ambient noise pollution is determined by noise maps, the basis for the creation of action plans for noise protection. A uniform procedure applies in the EU, so that noise maps had to be created by June 30, 2022, while the noise action plans should be available by July 18, 2024.

Particularly affected are densely populated metropolitan areas with more than 100,000 inhabitants and main traffic streets, which record 3 million motor vehicles every year. The main rails and large airports also fall into this area. In Germany, for example, 25.5 million people suffer from the noise pollution, which underlines the urgency of the topic.

recommended measures to reduce noise pollution

The VCÖ suggests in addition to speed limits to push the electrification of drives to reduce the noise pollution of trucks and motorcycles. A promotion of quieter mobility alternatives, such as cycling, is also recommended. Studies show that from a speed of about 30 km/h the roller sound of the vehicles comes to the fore more, while motor noise in mopeds, motorcycles and trucks remains dominant even at higher speeds.

Overall, it should be noted that combating traffic noise is not only a concern of those affected, but also a social responsibility in order to sustainably improve the health and quality of life of the population.