Differential exposure of the urban population to road traffic noise in Hong Kong

Abstract

The exposure of the urban population of Hong Kong to road traffic noise at their dwellings and in their neighborhood and community has been mapped using available digital maps, traffic data and GIS-based noise prediction software. A total of 213 street block groups built by the government and private developers at different times and in different geographical areas were selected for the mapping. The socio-economic attributes of those living in public and private housing estates were obtained from the Census and Statistics Department. Using the street block group as the basic study unit, noise mapping was done in the 3-D format at the dwelling unit level. 2-D maps were also generated for the neighborhood and community close to where the inhabitants live and move around. Based on mapping results, the study examines whether there is significant difference in noise exposure of housing estates built at different times and by different housing providers (private/ public). This paper outlines the methodology adopted, presents the initial findings of the mapping exercise, and discusses whether traffic noise exposure is socio-economically biased in Hong Kong.