Noise and general well-being in urban environments: The potential role of nearby natural areas

• A growing body of literature indicates that contact with nature influence people’s health and psychological well-being both directly and by moderating processes. A questionnaire study was conducted in urban residential settings with high road-traffic noise exposure (LAeq,24h equal/higher than 60 to 68 dB). Out of 500 subjects, 367 lived in dwellings with access to a quiet side (free field LAeq,24h < 45 dB; “noise/quiet”-condition) and 133 had no access to a quiet side (“noise/noise”-condition). Previous results show that a quiet side of the dwelling influence subject’s responses to noise. The present paper examines whether nearby green natural areas further affects various aspects of general well-being in these two noise-condition groups. The results show that very good availability to nearby green areas is important for resident’s general well-being and daily behavior by reducing noise annoyances and increasing usage of spaces outdoors. In the process of planning health-promoting urban environments, it is essential to strive for lower sound levels (LAeq,24h < 60 dB), to design “noise-free” sections indoors and outdoors, as well as to provide easy access to nearby natural areas that can offer a positive sound environment, relief from environmental stress, and opportunities for rest and relaxation.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Folkhälsovetenskap, global hälsa, socialmedicin och epidemiologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Public Health, Global Health, Social Medicine and Epidemiology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Noise

well being

green areas

restoration

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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