A new study reveals inequities in urban noise, with louder volumes in areas once denied loans due to racial discrimination. The impacts on residents and wildlife ecosystems raise environmental concerns.
The research team analyzed 83 US cities and found maximum noise levels averaged 17% higher in formerly redlined areas.
- The study is the first to analyze noise in redlined communities.
- The amount of harm to urban ecosystems is proportional to noise level.
The backstory: In 1933, the Home Owners' Loan Corporation assigned neighborhood grades based on race and wealth.
- Grade A neighborhoods were wealthier and whiter
- Red lines were drawn around grade D neighborhoods, which were more racially and ethnically diverse.
- Redlining was outlawed in 1968, but disparities persist.
The problem: Continuous loud noise negatively impacts human health, causing hearing loss, adverse stress, insomnia, hypertension, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Constant loud noise stresses wildlife too, changing animal communication, foraging, mating, movement, reproduction, and, for some species, a higher risk of predation.
Why it matters
Reducing persistent loud noise would improve the health of residents living in marginalized communities—and the health of local wildlife.
The big picture
As cities strive to create more green spaces, mitigating noise pollution is crucial for the health of both residents and wildlife.
"If we're adding green space without mitigating impacts of noise, we might not be fully recognizing the benefits of these green spaces.” —Sara Bombaci, PhD, Colorado State University
The bottom line
Improved urban planning can create a healthier, more equitable future, as noise pollution disproportionately affects disadvantaged communities.
An equal opportunity risk
The study demonstrates that residents of disadvantaged communities are more exposed to loud noise. However, excessive loud noise affects everyone’s health, regardless of the location (urban, suburban, or rural) and socio-economic status, as reported by The New York Times. Loud noise does not discriminate.
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