A growing concern for human health and wildlife, noise pollution, charatererised by high level of noise from sources such as transportation, industrial activities and construction has become a significant environmental issue, prolong exposure to loud noise can have detrimental effects on human health including hearing loss and stress as well as disrupt wildlife habitats.
Effects of noise pollution on human health
Hearing loss
Exposure to loud noise cause permanent damage to the hear cell in the inner ear leading to hearing loss, this can be particularly problematic for individuals working in noisy environments such as construction sites, or factories.
Stress and Anxiety.
Chronic exposure to noise pollution can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels which can have further negative impacts on mental and physical health.
Sleep disturbances.
Noise pollution can disrupt sleep patterns leading to fatigue, decreased productivity and other health problems.
Sources of Noise Pollution.
Transportation.
Traffic noise from vehicles, airplanes and trains is a significant contributor to noise pollution in urban areas.
Industrial activities.
Factories, construction sites and other industrial activities can generate high levels of noise pollutions.
Constructions.
Construction activities such as drilling and demolition can produce loud noise that affects both human health and wildlife.
Mitigating noise pollution.
To reduce the impacts of noise pollution, several strategies can be employed.
Noise Barriers.
Installing noise barriers or sound proofing materials can help reduce noise levels in affected areas.
Regulating and policies.
Implementing regulations and policies to limit noise levels from industrial activities and transportation can help mitigate noise pollution.
Public awareness about the impacts of noise pollution can encourage individuals to take steps to reduce their own noise levels and advocate for noise reducing measures.
In conclusion, noise pollution is a growing concern that effect both human health and wildlife, by understanding the sources and impacts of noise pollution, one can work towards reducing its effects and creating a healthier, more sustainable environment for all.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a retired Permanent Secretary, writes from Lokoja.
