1

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, TIRUCHIRAPALLI.

APRIL, 2024.

A REPORT ON

PREDICTION & ASSESMENT OF IMPACTS ON NOISE

ENVIRONMENT.

COURSE CODE AND NAME:

CEPE24 – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT.

COURSE INSTRUCTOR:
Dr. ANEESH MATHEW
Asst. Professor
Department of Civil Engineering.
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TEAM MEMBERS:

Serial No. Name Roll Number

Dhrubajyoti
1 Mahottam 103121031

Jatin
2 Anand 103121045

Nagabhatla
3 Sreekari 103121071

Pathan Irfan
4 Khan 103121084

Puneet Kumar
5 Rajvanshi 103121089

Sushanth
6 Prithvi 103121109
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Index:

1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Noise Measurement
4. Impact Due to Noise Environment
5. Systematic Methodology for Assessing Environmental Impacts of Noise
6. Mitigation Methods
7. Prediction of Final Impact Assessment
8. Conclusion
9. References
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[Link]:
This abstract provides an overview of the prediction and assessment of impacts on the noise
environment within the context of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Noise pollution,
stemming from various anthropogenic activities, poses significant environmental and public
health concerns globally. In this study, we explore the methodologies and practices involved
in predicting and assessing noise impacts associated with development projects. Baseline data
collection, identification of noise sources, and the utilization of noise prediction models are
essential steps in this process. The assessment involves comparing predicted noise levels with
established standards and guidelines, considering both short-term and long-term impacts on
sensitive receptors. Mitigation measures, stakeholder engagement, and the consideration of
cumulative noise effects are integral components of effective noise impact assessment.
Through a comprehensive approach to noise prediction and assessment, informed decision-
making can be facilitated to minimize adverse impacts on the noise environment and ensure
sustainable development practices.

[Link]:
Noise pollution is a growing concern in our modern world, impacting human health, wildlife,
and overall quality of life. This report delves into the critical aspects of predicting and
assessing the potential impacts of various activities and developments on the surrounding
noise environment. The impact of noise on the environment has emerged as a critical
concern. The rapid expansion of infrastructure, transportation networks, and industrial
activities has led to an unprecedented rise in noise pollution levels, affecting both natural
ecosystems and human well-being. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of
the prediction and assessment of impacts on the noise environment, highlighting key
methodologies, challenges, and mitigation strategies.
This Report will include:
Data collection: Gathering relevant data on the proposed project and the surrounding
environment.
Noise prediction: Utilizing the chosen model(s) to predict the noise levels at various
distances from the project site.
Impact assessment: Comparing the predicted noise levels with established noise standards
or regulations to assess the potential impact on nearby communities or sensitive receptors.
Mitigation strategies: If the assessment reveals potential noise exceedances, developing
mitigation strategies like noise barriers, quieter equipment selection, or restricted operating
hours to minimize the impact.
This Report aims to provide a valuable tool for engineers and environmental professionals to
predict and assess the noise impacts of various projects. By implementing this methodology,
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potential noise pollution can be identified and addressed during the planning stages,
promoting sustainable development and protecting public health.

[Link] MEASUREMENT:
Noise measurement specifications require definition of the period of measurement, the noise
parameter to be recorded, and the position of the recording instrument relative to the road and
adjacent properties.
3.1 MEASUREMENT UNITS:
Decibels (dB) are the unit of measurement for sound levels, which are represented by a
logarithmic function of acoustic pressure. Acoustic pressures' audible range is measured in
dB (A). When a constant amount is multiplied by the acoustic pressure, the human ear
experiences a continuous increase in sound level. According to the sound level scale, quiet
areas are associated with levels between 30 and 50 dB (A), whereas sounds beyond 70 dB
(A) are extremely disruptive. Measurements and forecasts are expressed as mean values or
other indications over a specific period of time since noise is a variable over time.

3.2 MEASURING DEVICES:

Sonmeters are devices that transform sound wave energy into an electrical signal, the
magnitude of which is displayed or recorded, allowing one to quantify the current levels of
noise.

The measurements made with these instruments can serve as relevant baseline data, but their
future utility is restricted due to their inability to discriminate distinct sources of noise and the
length of the sample [Link] duration and frequency of intrusive noises, the time of year
(whether windows are open or closed), the time of day when noise exposure occurs, and other
factors have been proven to impact community response to noise.

 Duration of intruding noises and frequency of occurrence,

 Time of year (windows open or closed),
 Time of day of noise exposure,
 Outdoor noise level is community when intruding noises are not present,
 History of prior exposure to the noise source,
 Attitude toward the noise source, and
 Presence of pure tones or impulses.
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Fig. 3.1. – Examples of Common Sounds in Decibles.

[Link] DUE TO NOISY ENVIRONMENT:

Noise pollution, a pervasive environmental issue, poses multifaceted impacts on both natural
ecosystems and human settlements. Identifying these impacts is crucial for understanding the
breadth of the problem and formulating effective mitigation strategies. Here, we explore key
areas where noise affects the environment:
4.1. Ecological Disruption:
Noise alters natural soundscapes, disrupting communication and behavioral patterns among
wildlife.
It can interfere with mating calls, foraging activities, and predator-prey interactions, leading
to reduced reproductive success and biodiversity loss.
Aquatic environments are particularly vulnerable, with noise from ships, sonar, and
underwater construction posing threats to marine mammals, fish, and invertebrates.

4.2. Habitat Fragmentation:

High noise levels fragment habitats by creating barriers to movement for species sensitive to
sound disturbances.
Urbanization and transportation infrastructure often introduce continuous noise barriers,
isolating wildlife populations and impeding gene flow, which can have long-term genetic
consequences.
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4.3. Disruption of Ecosystem Services:

Noise pollution can compromise the provision of essential ecosystem services, such as
pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control.
In ecosystems where acoustic cues play a role in regulating ecological processes, noise
interference may disrupt these services, leading to cascading effects on ecosystem
functioning.
4.4. Human Health Impacts:
Noise pollution affects human health, with implications for mental well-being, cardiovascular
health, and sleep quality.
Chronic exposure to high noise levels increases stress levels, exacerbates anxiety and
depression, and contributes to the development of hypertension and heart diseases.
Sleep disturbances resulting from noise can impair cognitive function, productivity, and
overall quality of life.
4.5. Socioeconomic Effects:
Noise pollution reduces property values and diminishes the attractiveness of residential and
recreational areas.
It imposes economic burdens through healthcare costs associated with noise-related health
conditions and productivity losses due to impaired concentration and communication in noisy
environments.
Tourism and outdoor recreational activities may suffer declines in visitation due to noisy
conditions, impacting local economies dependent on these sectors.
4.6. Cultural and Aesthetic Degradation:
Noise pollution disrupts cultural practices and traditions reliant on quiet environments, such
as religious ceremonies, meditation, and indigenous rituals.
It diminishes the aesthetic appeal of natural landscapes and urban spaces, eroding the sense of
place and identity associated with these environments.
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Fig. 4.1. – Effects of Noise on People(Residential land use only).

[Link] Methodology for Assessing Environmental Impacts of Noise

5.1 EIA Methodology for Noise Impacts:

Sound and noise may be emitted to the environment from stationary sources (industry,
equipment), road traffic and railways, aircraft operations, and blasting. The emissions can
result in changes in ambient sound and vibration levels as well as noise levels which may
adversely affect health and well being of people living and working in the vicinity of the
noise source.
To provide a basis for addressing noise-environment impacts, a seven-step or six-activity
model is suggested for the planning and conducting impact studies. The seven main steps
associated with noise environment impacts are
 Identification of levels of noise emissions and impact concerns related to the
construction and operation of the development project;
 Description of the environmental setting in terms of existing noise levels and noise
sources, along with land-use information and unique receptors in the project area;
 Procurement of relevant laws, regulations or criteria related to noise levels, land-use
compatibility, and noise emission standards;
 Conducting impact prediction activities, including the use of simple noise-attenuation
models, simple noise-source-specific models, comprehensive mathematical models,
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and/or qualitative-prediction techniques based on the examination of case studies and

the exercise of professional judgement;
 use of pertinent information from step 3, along with professional judgement and
public input, to assess the significance of anticipated beneficial and detrimental
impacts;
 identification, development, and incorporation of appropriate mitigation measures for
the adverse impacts, and
 Preparation of final Environmental impact statement.

The flow chart below delineates the relationship between the seven steps or activites
in the suggested conceptual approach:

Fig. 5.1. – Conceptual Approach for Study focused on noise environment impacts.

5.1.1. Step-1-Identification of Noise impacts:

 The first step in the methodology is to detennine the potential impacts of the proposed
project (or activity) on the noise environment. This requires the identification of the
noise levels associated with the project. A considerable body of information exists on
noise levels associated with a variety of projects and related activities.
 The sources, of noise are numerous, so they may be broadly classified into two
classes, namely, industrial and non-industrial. The industrial category may include
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noises from various industries like transportation, vehicular movements, rockets,

defense equipment and explosions. Among the non-industrial category, the notable
sources of noise are loudspeakers, traffic, air crafts, trains. construction works, radios,
TVs, vacuum cleaners, mixers, power lawn mov~rs and air conditioners in the
domestic or commercial use.
5.1.2. Step-2-Description of Existing Noise Environment Condition:
 The primary intormation which should be accumulated in step 2 is data on existing
noise levels and noise sources within the study area. Land-use and human-population-
distribution maps in relation to the proposed project would also be needed.
 In analyzing the potential noise impacts of a proposed project (or activity), it is
necessary to consider the study as area (potential project area or region of influence)
associated with the noise emissions. The delineation of a study area can be made
based upon the boundaries of the land associated with the project. or the delineation
can include a larger area by considering the area of noise influence within the vicinity
of the proposed project.
 If no specific data on existing noise levels is available for the study area. it might be
possible to use published noise-level information developed for project involving
similar land use. For example. Fig 4.1 shows typical day-night noise levels in urban
areas in the United States. Quiet suburban residential areas have an average L dn of 50
dBA. while very noisy urban residential areas exhibit Lvalues of 70 dBA. Typical
noise levels in rural settings are 30 to 35 dBA, and in wilderness locations they are in
the order of 20 dBA. Seasonal and daily variations in noise levels may occur,
particularly at national and state parks and recreational areas.

5.1.3. Step-3-Procurement of Relevant Noise Standard and Guidelines:

The primary sources of information on noise standards, criteria, and policies will be the
relevant local, state, and federal agencies, which have a mandate for overseeing the noise
environment of the study area. Additional information may be available from international
agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the United Nations' Environment
Program. This information can be used to determine the baseline quality and the significance
of noise impacts incurred during projects (or activities); it could also aid in deciding between
alternative actions or in assessing the need for mitigation measures for a given alternative.
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Fig. [Link] – Noise Zone Classififcation.

5.1.4. Step-4-Impact Prediction:

 Step 4 involves predicting the propagation of noise from a source and determining the
type of affected land- use. Several approaches for predicting noise contours are outlined
in the discussion of this step. One method of expressing both existing noise and
predicted noise levels is by using a level- weighted population value.
 A sound-level-weighted population is a single number representation of the significance
of a noise environment to the exposed population. The assumptions are that the intensity
of human response is one of several consequences of average sound level. depending
upon the response mode of interest (annoyance. speech interference and hearing loss)
and that the impact of high noise levels on a small number of people is equivalent to
the impact of lower noise levels on a larger number of people in an overall evaluation.
Based on these assumptions. the "fractional impact" can be determined as the product
of a sound-level-weighting value and the number of persons exposed to a specified
sound level. Summing the fractional impacts over the entire population provides the
sound-level-weighted population (LWP). The calculation is as follows:
LWP = P(Ldn).W(Ldn)d(Ldn)
Where P (Ldn) is the population distribution function, W(Ldn ) is the day-night average
sound-level-weighting function characterizing the severity of the impact as a function of
sound level (its derivation is described below), and d(Ldn) is the differential change in day-
night average sound level. Sufficient accuracy can be obtained by taking average values of
the weighting function between equal decibel increments - say. up to 5 dB - and replacing the
integrals by summations of successive increments in average sound level.
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The weighting function W (Ldn) is based on the reaction of populations to living in noise
impacted environments and other social survey data relating the fraction of sampled
population expressing a high degree of annoyance to various Ldn values. The weighting
function is normalized to unity at 75 dB; value ofW(Ldn) is listed in Fig5.1.4.1.
A Noise Impact index (NII) can then be used for comparing the relative impact of one noise
environment with that of another. It is defined as the sound-level-weighted population LWP
divided by the total population Ptotal under consideration:
NII = LWP/Ptotal
An example calculation for this index is in shown Fig5.1.4.2.

Fig. [Link] – Sound-level-weighting Function for Overall Impact Analysis.

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Fig. [Link] – Example of level-weighted population LWP and noise-impact-index.

computation.

5.1.5. Step-5-Assesment of Impact Significance:

 One basis for evaluation of significant impact is public input; this input could be
received through a continued scoping process of the conduction of public meetings or
public participation programs or both. The general public can often delineate important
environmental resources and values for particular areas. and this should be considered
in impact assessment.
 Professional judgment can also be useful to assess the percentage changes from baseline
conditions in terms of noise levels and/or exposed human population, or a noise index;
discussed in step-5.

5.1.6. Step-6-Mitigation Measures:

Mitigation measures refer to steps that can be taken to minimize the magnitude of the
detrimental noise impacts. The key approach to mitigation is to reduce or control the noise
expected to be emitted from the project (or activity). Mitigation can proceed along three
possible courses of action, either by changing
 the source of noise,
 the path of noise from the source to the receiver,
 the receiver of noise. Some additional principles of noise control include the reduction
of the number. of vibrating sources, enclosure of the source, and attenuation of noise
by absorbing barriers methods.
Simple hand calculations and/or computer models described earlier can assist in forecasting
the relative effectiveness of various designed and/or operational phase mitigation techniques.
Further, various designs can be used to reduce the noise from specific sources; for example,
the mechanical noise from the gearbox of large wind turbines can be minimized by adapting
specific design features.
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5.1.7. Step-7-Prediction of Final Impact Statement:

The final environment impact statement should include summary tables and discussion with
industries. The results of analysis will help in decision making. Maps should show location of
surface receptors and measurement rates and size balance.

Conclusion:
Noise as a pollutant produces contamination in environment becoming a nuisance and a cause
for annoyance, and affects the health of a person, his activities and mental abilities. The
extent to which noise contributes to the deterioration of our environment could not be easily
determined like that of pollution from other sources. It has been possible to assess impurities
in the air or in water quantitatively but all persons are not affected to the same degree by the
same noise. There occurs a vast variation in individual sensitivity to noise and people are
affected differently when they are at home or outside or at work. The intensity of noise can
have a direct effect on biological and human communities. Constant noise may cause blood
vessels to contract, skin to become pale, muscles to contract and adrenaline to be shot into
blood stream. The adrenaline is responsible for both excitery and inhibitory responses in
living beings. To provide a basis for addressing noise environment impacts, a seven-step or
six-activity model is suggested for the planning and conducting impact studies.

The seven main steps associated with noise environment impacts assessment are:
1. Identification of levels of noise emissions and impact concerns related to the construction
and operation of the development project,
2. Description of the environmental setting in terms of existing noise levels and noise
sources, along with land use information and unique receptors in the project area,
3. Procurement of relevant laws, regulations or criteria related to noise levels, land-use
compatibility, and noise emission standards,
4. Conducting impact prediction activities, including the use of simple noise attenuation
models, simple noise-source-specific models, comprehensive mathematical models, and/or
qualitative-prediction techniques based on the examination of case studies and the exercise of
professional judgement,
5. Use of pertinent information from step 3, along with professional judgement and public
input, to assess the significance of anticipated beneficial and detrimental impacts,
6. Identification, development, and incorporation of appropriate mitigation measures for the
adverse impacts, and
7. Preparation of final environmental impact statement which are discussed with examples in
this program.
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References:
1. Chanlett E.T. (1973) Environmental Protection. McGrawhill Book New York pp 523.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection agency (EPA), (1973) "Public Health and welfare criteria
for Noise," EPA 550/9-73-002, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, office of Noise
Abatement and Control, Washington, D. C.
3. U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, (1985) The Noise Guidebook,
4. U. S. Department of Housing and Urban development. Washington, D. C.
5. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), (1978) Protective Noise Levels :
Condensed version of EPA levels Document, EPA 550/9-79-110, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, office of Noise Abatement and control, Washington, D. C .. Nov. 1978.
6. Federal Interagency committee on urban Noise, (1980) "Guidelines for considering Noise
in Land Use planning and control," Federal Interagency committee on Urban Noise,
Washington, D. C.
7. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), (1972) "Report to the president and nd nd
congress on Noise, 92 congress,2 session, DOC., 92-63, Washington, D.C.
8. Bowlby W. Harris R. A and Cohn L.F. (1990) Seasonal measurements of aircraft noise in a
National Park, Journal of the air and Waste Management Association Vol. 40 pp 68-76.
9. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (1974). "Information on levels of
Environmental Noise Requisite to protect public Health and welfare with an adequate margin
of safety, " EPA 550/9-74-004, U. S., Environmental Protection Agency, office of Noise
abatement and control, Washington, D.C.
10. Marsh W. M. (1991) Landscape planning. Environmental applications 2nd ed., John
Wiley and Sons, p322. 10. Von Gierke H. E. (1977) Guide lines for preparing environmental
impact statement on Noise. National Research Search Council, Washington D.C.
11. National cooperation Highway research program of USA, 174, (1976)
12. ERL (Environmental Resources Limited). (1984). Prediction in Environmental Impact
Assessment, a summary report of a research project to identify methods of prediction for use
in EIA. Prepared for the Ministry of Public Housing, Physical Planning and Environmental
Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Government of Netherlands
13. L. Junggren S. and Johanson M. (1991) Measures against mechanical noise from large
wind turbines. A design Guide "FFA-lN-1991-26 Aeronautical Research Institute of Sweden,
Stockhom.
14. Environmental Impact Methodologies, Second Edition.,Y Anjaneyulu,Valli Manickam.