Quiet Please – Better Health through Strong EU Regulation of Road and Rail Traffic Noise

Traffic noise is one of the most widespread environmental problems in Europe, with severe consequences for public health. According to recent findings from the World Health Organization (WHO), noise causes sleep disturbance, and increases the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Other effects include greater annoyance, stress and the hindering of children’s learning. Noise pollution interferes with people’s quality of life and health and can even have fatal consequences. The environmental impact on health by noise is second only to that from air pollution.