News / UWE Bristol
Traffic noise drowns out nature’s calming effects, study finds
A recent study by UWE Bristol has revealed that road traffic noise can significantly diminish the wellbeing benefits of spending time in natural environments.
Researchers found that while natural sounds, such as birdsong, are known to reduce stress and anxiety, manmade noises like vehicle traffic can mask these positive effects, undermining their therapeutic impact.
The study involved 68 student volunteers who listened to three different audio recordings: nature sounds recorded at sunrise in West Sussex, the same nature sounds mixed with 20 miles per hour traffic noise, and the same sounds combined with 40 miles per hour traffic noise.
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Participants’ anxiety levels and mood were assessed before and after each recording.
Dr Paul Lintott (pictured), who led the study emphasised that incorporating quieter, greener spaces in cities and reducing traffic speeds could play a crucial role in alleviating the stresses caused by urban noise pollution – photo: UWE Bristol
Results showed that nature sounds alone reduced stress and improved mood recovery. However, when traffic sounds were included, particularly at higher speeds, the benefits of the natural soundscape were significantly reduced.
The researchers concluded that reducing traffic speed in urban areas could improve both public health and wellbeing by enhancing the effectiveness of natural soundscapes.
Dr Paul Lintott, senior lecturer in conservation science at UWE Bristol, who led the study emphasised that incorporating quieter, greener spaces in cities and reducing traffic speeds could play a crucial role in alleviating the stresses caused by urban noise pollution.
He said: “Our study provides valuable insights into how natural and anthropogenic soundscapes affect anxiety and stress in urban areas. It highlights a critical aspect of urban living that is often overlooked – the need for access to natural sounds amidst the constant noise of city life.
“The study demonstrates that reducing speed limits in residential areas could be a simple yet effective measure to enhance the quality of life for urban residents.
A recent study by UWE Bristol has revealed that road traffic noise can significantly diminish the wellbeing benefits of spending time in natural environments – photo: Milan Perera
According to the UK Health Security Agency, noise pollution can increase the risk of developing serious health problems such as stroke and heart disease.
“Prioritising lower speed limits and enhancing green spaces within cities can improve the living environment, and reduce the stresses associated with urban noise pollution,” said Linott.
The complete academic paper is available at PLOS One.
Main photo: Milan Perera
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