Linking traffic and noise models to explore spatio-temporal distribution of noise pollution: an example in Besançon (France)

International audienceRoad transportation is one of the major environmental noise sources in urban areas, which is characterized by an important temporal and spatial variation. Therefore, linking mobility and traffic model with noise model each representing spatial and temporal dimensions is a great interest. An integrated and original approach was developed to explore noise pollution in urban areas with a spatiotemporal and prospective point of view. An agent-based Land-Use and Transport Integrated (LUTI) model - MobiSim- was used to assess traffic modulation by simulating hourly flows and mobility. Individual choices of agents (representing the city's inhabitants) were transformed to flux of vehicles and persons and affected on the available network systems (routes, public transports, etc.). MobiSim output was linked with the noise mapping MITHRA-SIG software in order to calculate hourly noise maps. Results were then compared with strategic noise map in the city of Besançon (France) calculated according to the European environmental noise directive (2002/49/EC). Finally, several scenarios of mobility were simulated, which impacted noise environment differently in time and space. This approach, combining traffic and mobility simulation and environment pollution model, offers an interesting solution to assess the impacts of urban planning and management projects according to the principles of sustainable development (traffic management and pollution, spatial and social equity, etc.)