Designing Soundscape for Sustainable Urban Development

Noise is a serious health problem in Europe. Road traffic is the predominant source of exposure in urban areas. As a basic measure in fighting noise, the City of Stockholm has monitored noise pollution since the early 1970s. Information about the current status of noise pollution is available in a data base, also containing information on protective actions and noise reduction measures. Our work against noise is one of the reasons why Stockholm was the first city to be awarded the European Green Capital title. To be successful in the future in delimiting noise exposure, more attention is needed to prevention of noise at the source, as well as to the city’s planning process. The City of Stockholm has taken part in research showing that people’s judgments of the soundscape in their homes greatly depends on factors like access to a ‘quiet ’ side of the house or access to a ‘quiet ’ sitting-out area. In addition, access to a ‘quiet’ recreational area within reasonable walking distance is of importance. This research shows that cities need to work in several ways, and not using noise abate-ment as the only strategy. Soundscape management can be a useful tool to achieve a more attractive and human city. We are proud to be a partner of this conference and to contribute in the exchange of experience between dif-ferent professions, and in introducing the soundscape approach to architects and urban planners. Gunnar Söderholm Head of the Environment and Health Administratio