Toning Down The Problem of Noise Pollution

So Who or What Are The Causes of Noise Pollution?

We are all familiar with pollution that is found in the air, water or land, but few people realize that there is such a thing as noise pollution. Basically, noise pollution is any loud, constant sound that is disruptive of an otherwise quiet and peaceful environment.

In addition to being annoying to the ear, too much noise can also increase the likelihood of stress-related disorders.

So What Causes Noise Pollution?

Most of the causes of noise pollution can not really be eliminated as they are part of urban life as we know it. What we can do is to simply avoid exposure to them as much as we can. Following are some of the most common causes of noise pollution:

• Airplanes. The sound of an airplane taking off is so loud that constant exposure to it may result in partial hearing loss. This is why people who work in airports wear protective ear coverings to protect them from this type of noise pollution.

• Automobiles. Most of us who live in the city may have already gotten used to the sound of cars passing by outside or horns relentlessly blowing while stuck in traffic. But these sounds can actually cause an increase in blood pressure levels and may even trigger the development of stress disorders.

• Office noise. Just because you don’t work in a noisy factory doesn’t mean you are safe from noise pollution. Many companies today use the cubicle-style setup for their offices because this maximizes space. But the open environment also creates more noise. Even if you are sitting quietly inside your cubicle, you cannot shut off the constant sounds of telephones ringing, people typing on keyboards, and other common office sounds.

• Home appliances. Modern appliances have made home living very comfortable but they are also noise pollutants. When several of these appliances are turned on at the same time, they can create a drone that can be quite disruptive to a peaceful home environment. In fact, studies have shown that kids who live in such noise-polluted homes do poorly in school and are more susceptible to stress and other illnesses.

How Can We Minimize or Find A Noise Pollution Solution?

As mentioned earlier, we really can’t stop the causes of noise since these are vital parts of everyday living. But there are things we can do to minimize the negative effects that it can have on our minds and bodies.

• Relax. Too much noise can stress levels, but we can neutralize this by regularly doing relaxing activities such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing.

• Reduce noise. If you live in a noisy environment, you can shut off a lot of the outside noise by using double-paned windows in your house. When listening to your iPod, keep the volume low enough so that people around you won’t have to shout for you to hear them.

Noise pollution is not something that we should take for granted. You may not feel the effects right now but constant exposure to noise can eventually take its toll on you. As early as now, try to limit the noise around you so that can protect not only your ears but your emotional health as well.