Noise Zoning of the City Using Noise Mapping

Noise is one of the main factors that cause a harmful effect on the health of the population. The most convenient source of information on noise pollution is a noise map. It also serves as an effective tool for controlling and combating noise and monitoring pollution. This approach was laid as the basis for development of the noise map of St. Petersburg. To assess the existing noise load, 1375 field observations were carried out throughout the city with instrumental measurements. Using experiments and calculations, the noise characteristics of road, rail, water, and industrial noise sources were estimated. The developed noise map made it possible to identify trends in noise levels in the city, determine the main sources of noise, conduct zoning of the city territories by the noise factor and identify the main directions for the development of noise protection measures and the prospective development of urban areas.