Towards 3D environmental impact studies: Example of noise

Abstract

Current environmental impact studies supporting environmental policies are mostly based on a 2D approach. The - mostly 3D - output of software that calculates the specific phenomenon (e.g. air or noise pollution) is processed and visualised in 2D and combined with 2D topographical and other data, such as population distribution, to quantify the effects. The research described in the paper aimed at improving visualisation and quantification of impact of continuous spatial phenomena on the environment by applying a 3D approach. Noise is taken as example. Based on the specific demand, an approach is presented to generate a 3D noise map as basis for noise impact studies. The proposed concept is proofed by applying it to a sample noise impact study. From experiences with the sample it can be concluded that the 3D noise map offers insight into the 3D noise situation where 2D noise maps have limitations. In addition more accurate assessment of noise impact is possible in particular when different floors of a building close to the noise source and/or behind noise barriers are considered, which is specifically relevant in urban areas. The proposed methodology can be applied to other continuous spatial phenomena so that it meets the more general problem of how to represent 3D aspects of environmental impact studies.