Noise Action Planning in Germany

Abstract

In 2002, to improve the noise situation in Europe, the EU issued the Environmental Noise Directive<BR>(2002/49/EC). It became law in Germany in 2005. The aim of the Directive is to reduce environmental<BR>noise and to prevent an increase in noise in areas which are traditionally quiet. This first requires mappingthe level of noise pollution in different areas and then introducing specific measures to reduce it. The EUDirective envisages progressive implementation of its provisions. Since 2012, noise levels in allconurbations and on all major transport routes in Europe need to be recorded. In Germany, this involves 71conurbations with around 24.5 million inhabitants, 44,000 kilometres of motor-ways and major trunk roads,13,700 kilometres of major railway lines, and all eleven major airports. Moreover, effective noise abatementmeasures had been established in Noise Action Plans. The state of all Noise Action Plans until 2015 wereanalysed. Experiences, promising approaches and difficulties were compiled. A report provided guidancefor the improvement of Noise Action Plans and their general conditions.In: 22nd International Congress on Acoustics ICA 2016 : Proceedings / Federico Miyara [Ed.] ; Ernesto Accolti [Ed.] ; Vivian Pasch [Ed.]. - Gonnet - (2016), S. 89