Conclusion
Our analysis of sound pollution during journeys to school in London reveals several interesting findings. Firstly, the difference in noise levels between walking, bus, and overground transportation is not as drastic as expected. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, the overground recordings had the lowest Max.level, while the bus and walking recordings exhibited higher levels. This indicates that factors beyond the mode of transportation contribute to sound pollution in our daily commutes.
Additionally, we observed that the LAeq values were relatively similar across most recordings, despite our data coming from different parts of South and East London. And there doesn't seem to be any obvious correlation between the TWA data collected.
This surprising consistency suggests that urban areas sustain an average background noise level that can impact individuals' well-being. Studies have shown that such noise levels can raise blood pressure, heart rate, and cause stress and sleep disruption.
The omnipresence of car sounds in metropolitan cities creates a sonic illusion, where we become accustomed to the constant soundscape. While this may not cause hearing damage, it undoubtedly affects our overall health and fatigue throughout the day. The average noise level in London is approximately 66dB, and urban life sustains an average background noise level of around 60 decibels. Noise from construction sites, industrial activities, and aircraft further contribute to the overall noise pollution in the city.
When researching specific transportation systems, we found that the London Underground, particularly the Northern Line, stands out as a source of significant noise. This may be attributed to the acoustically hard surface materials used in most Underground stations, which reflect and prolong noise within the space, creating a perception of higher loudness. Additionally, specific sections of the Tube with worn-off rails or higher train speeds tend to be even noisier. While efforts have been made to address noise pollution in West and Central London, the train lines in the East, particularly South East London, have received less attention, specially when it comes to buses the last improvement made to reduce noise levels was done in 2005.
To mitigate noise pollution, various maintenance and engineering measures can be implemented. Solutions suggested by experts include reducing train speeds, improving contact surfaces between wheels and tracks, rail lubrication, rail improvement or replacement, enhancing vibration isolation, and implementing measures like air conditioning and improved sound insulation in carriages. While TfL has undertaken some initiatives, such as installing noise-dampening pads and conducting rail grinding, more comprehensive efforts are required. These are solutions to reduce the noise in the transport itself, but from the data we collected we can understand the issue is much more complex. As covered before London is 65dB of average noise, meaning we live in a polluted city. These commutes to university might not be excruciatingly damaging but it's still something that affects our daily lives and we shouldn’t wait for it to be worse until we start doing something about it.
In conclusion, our analysis demonstrates that sound pollution during journeys to university in London is a complex issue influenced by various factors beyond the mode of transportation. Urban planning and gentrification play significant roles, with gentrified areas experiencing increased noise levels due to construction activities. Efforts to mitigate noise pollution have been unevenly distributed across different parts of London, emphasising the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach. Addressing noise pollution in all areas, especially those affected by gentrification, is crucial for improving the well-being and quality of life of London residents.
Gentrification plays a pivotal role in the issue of sound pollution, and its impact cannot be ignored. This lack of focus on noise pollution in gentrified areas, such as Lewisham, is a cause for concern, as the ongoing construction sites and increased urban development contribute substantially to elevated noise levels. The effects of noise pollution extend far beyond daily commutes and can disrupt the lives of residents in these areas.
Our analysis leads us to a conclusion that gentrification is intricately intertwined with the issue of sound pollution. It is evident that this is a complex matter, and our data only scratches the surface, unable to fully unveil the extent of the problem. However, it becomes apparent that urban planning and gentrification have significant roles to play in the creation and exacerbation of sound pollution issues.
Even the noise pollution maps and information provided by Transport for London (TfL) primarily focus on the more affluent areas, leaving a dearth of information regarding noise pollution in South East London. This is an imbalance that urgently needs to be rectified. It is essential to broaden our understanding and tackle noise pollution in all areas, especially those undergoing gentrification.
Moreover, noise pollution is not solely attributed to the modes of transportation such as overground trains and buses. The constant noise levels emanating from these construction activities can profoundly impact the well-being of individuals residing in these areas. The effects of noise pollution extend beyond commutes to school or work and seep into the sanctity of one's home. This realisation challenges the initial intent of our study, which aimed to measure noise levels in various modes of transportation in South East London. Instead, it highlights that noise pollution is an issue that pervades every moment of our day.
Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that certain individuals live in areas undergoing gentrification, a common occurrence in South East London. These individuals bear the brunt of higher noise pollution levels due to the constant construction activities and the construction of new buildings. Additionally, there are individuals who reside in areas situated along flight paths, experiencing the disruptive noise caused by aeroplanes overhead. These findings demonstrate that noise pollution affects us all, irrespective of our specific circumstances.
In light of these observations, it is evident that the impact of sound pollution extends far beyond our daily commutes to university or work. It is an issue that pervades every aspect of our lives. The individuals residing in gentrified areas and those subjected to excessive construction noise are particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of noise pollution. Thus, addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that considers the impacts on both physical and mental well-being.
To create a more balanced and equitable approach to tackling noise pollution, it is essential to allocate resources and attention to all areas, including those undergoing gentrification. Additionally, comprehensive studies and data collection efforts need to encompass a broader range of locations, shedding light on the noise pollution concerns faced by residents in South East London. By recognizing the pervasive nature of noise pollution and its connection to urban planning and gentrification, we can strive for a healthier and more harmonious living environment for all London residents.
England Noise and Air Quality Viewer.
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We need to talk about the London Underground's big noise problems.