Environmental noise has become a very significant issue for many homes, businesses and other institutions. A variety of different factors contribute to the problem of environmental noise pollution. They include increasing population density, per capita space reduction, and increasing levels of industrial, transportation and residential noise.

Common noise sources include roads and freeways, airplanes, industrial institutions, plants and factories, air conditioners and pool equipment, and many others.

According to governmental protection agencies, noise pollution is a major environmental concern and may cause a variety of significant problems. For example, people exposed to transportation noise may experience such consequences as loss of sleep, productivity loss, hearing problems, loss of physical well-being, stress, and increasing health care costs. Property values may also be lowered because of nearby transportation noise sources
(Source - Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW)).

For more information about the problem of noise pollution, please visit the following sites:

• The Noise Pollution Clearinghouse
• Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW): Noise Pollution
• Soundscape Awareness and Protection
• Chronic noise pollution