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As the impact of noise on children's health and learning gains recognition, some cities are leading the way toward quieter environments.

Traffic Noise

In many urban areas, traffic noise is a pervasive problem. The constant sounds of vehicles and trains contribute to a noisy atmosphere, which has become a global concern. The United Nations has identified urban noise pollution as a "global public health menace." This type of pollution affects millions and leads to various health issues.

In the United States and European Union, the primary sources of noise pollution include road, rail, and air traffic. This environmental noise can cause chronic stress, sleep disturbances, and elevated blood pressure. It is also linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, and it can increase the risk of diabetes.

Effects on Kids' Brains

Children are especially susceptible to the negative effects of noise pollution. For instance, in New York, a classroom located near a subway had such high noise levels that the teacher needed to shout to be heard. This persistent noise disrupted the learning process and adversely affected students' reading skills.

In 1975, Arline Bronzaft, a psychology professor at Herbert H. Lehman College, conducted a study revealing that students on the noisier side of a school performed worse on reading tests than those on the quieter side. To address this issue, measures such as installing rubber pads on train tracks and using sound-absorbing materials in classrooms were implemented.

Does Traffic Noise Hurt Kids' Brains?

There is evidence that traffic noise can harm children's cognitive development. Research conducted in 2022 in Barcelona assessed primary school children and found that exposure to road traffic noise hindered their working memory and attention span. These cognitive functions are vital for learning, problem-solving, and language comprehension. The study also found that sudden noise fluctuations, such as car horns or engine sounds, were especially disruptive, impacting children's focus and learning abilities.

Experts advise keeping classroom noise levels below 35 decibels to promote a good learning environment. However, many classrooms exceed this limit, potentially leading to noise-induced hearing loss and other health problems. Prolonged exposure to noise can affect the central nervous system and brain, increasing the likelihood of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and cognitive decline. Reducing traffic around schools and creating green spaces can help shield children from excessive noise and enhance their learning conditions.