Cartographic visualisation of noise and aspects of public understanding of this information

Abstract

Maps are the major instrument for the assessment of noise in European cities. They are the basis for informing the public and for formulating action plans. Environmental noise that is the subject of this chapter is defined as “unwanted or harmful outdoor sound created by human activities, including noise emitted by means of transport, road traffic, rail traffic, air traffic, and from sites of industrial activity” (European Parliament and Council 2002, Art. 2(1)).