Noise pollution is the price we pay for living in cities. Henry W. Kendall. It is a public health problem that can no longer be ignored. Richard Neitzel
The WHO states that noise (unwanted sound) pollution is the second most significant environmental health risk after air pollution. It can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, stress, anxiety, high blood pressure, heart disease and sleep disturbance.
Hearing does deteriorate with age however permanent damage occurs from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise such as a vacuum for 8 hrs (80dB) or an intense burst of noise for a short duration such as a plane taking off for 5 seconds. (130 dB). Once lost, hearing is irreparable. Loss of hearing accounts for 8% of dementia patients, leads to decreased sense of balance and compromised quality of life.
Of all the varieties of modern pollution noise is the most insidious. Robert Lacey
The third Wednesday of April is Noise Awareness Day. A day to consciously notice your sound environment and introduce new behaviors.
Listening to and understanding our inner sufferings will resolve most of the problems we encounter. Thich Nhat Hanh
Maybe you change your route to work to avoid the pile drivers; spend 15 min in a park listening; or simply start wearing earplugs on the street. Awareness is the first step towards change. This week, tune in to silence.