Noise: The Not-So Silent Killer?
- Ashley Barwick
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Following on from the Heathrow Airport kerfuffle, I thought this would be a good time to reflect upon the positive impact of not having 1,300 screaming jet engines pumping out kerosene fuel above us for a day.
Noise pollution, often dismissed as a mere nuisance, poses significant threats to public health. The BBC World Service Global Story podcast, 'Noise: The Not-So Silent Killer?' (which I have included at the end of this post) delves into this pressing issue, highlighting the myriad of ways in which environmental noise infiltrates our daily lives and impacts our well-being.
Whereas the health risks associated with environmental pollution from, as in our example, transportation, are easily measurable through particulate counts and toxicity tests, the effect on health caused by being bombarded with sound waves is less obvious. The sound of a babbling brook, children playing or music can calm us and make us feel good in ourselves - all that is positive.
However, exposure to persistent or elevated noise levels has been linked to a range of health problems. Apart from the obvious hearing impairment risks, cardiovascular issues, such as hypertension and ischemic heart disease, are notably prevalent among individuals subjected to chronic noise. The body's stress response to persistent noise can lead to increased production of stress hormones, contributing to vascular inflammation and elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, noise pollution disrupts sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation, which exacerbates stress and diminishes overall health. Cognitive impairments, including diminished concentration and memory, have also been observed, particularly in children exposed to noisy environments.
The sources of environmental noise are diverse, encompassing traffic, industrial activities, and recreational events. Urban areas, with their dense populations and constant activity, are especially susceptible to high noise levels. This pervasive exposure underscores the need for not only comprehensive noise management policies and public awareness initiatives, but moreover a personal approach to managing one's health as a result.
Addressing noise pollution requires a multifaceted approach. Urban planning that incorporates green spaces can serve as natural sound barriers, mitigating noise levels. Implementing stricter regulations on noise emissions from transportation and industrial sources is also crucial. So, do we need more airports or runways, driven by the pretexts of connectivity, economics and trade in the pursuit of globalisation and if so, at what cost to our latent health issues?
A power cut and issues around a business continuity plan have reminded me of often-overlooked issues. By acknowledging and addressing this "not-so-silent killer," we can pave the way toward a more serene and healthful society.
Feel free to email me at enquiries@fraxbiz.com and leave comments on here and in the meantime have a look at this video.
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