A cost-effective approach to the evaluation of traffic noise exposure in the city of Quito, Ecuador

Abstract

In 2015, the Ecuadorian regulation related to noise considered the need to develop noise maps as a strategic tool for the noise pollution management and urban planning. However, no specific methodology has been established yet. Therefore, this study aims to develop Quitós first traffic noise map by using computer-aided predictive model, an official data of road network, buildings and population. Three noise prediction models (RLS-90, STL-86, and NMPB-Routes-08) were initially used to compare the modelled and measured results. Short time noise measurements and vehicle counts were used as a means of prediction model validation. The comparison showed that the RLS-90 model was the most suitable for predicting traffic noise levels, in this case of study. Using simplified information about traffic flow, building sound absorption and road surface, a cost-effective traffic noise assessment was obtained. The results of noise evaluation on building façade estimates that during daytime 25% of the people living in the urban area of Quito is exposed to road traffic noise levels above 65 dBA, considered as high and undesirable. While the results for night-time estimate that 38% of the population are exposed to traffic noise levels, considered as increasingly dangerous for public health. The results of this study may be considered as a starting point for the city urban planning, mobility managing and policy making.