Community Noise Policy in Denmark

Abstract

This paper summarizes an analysis of Danish policy on community noise during the last three decades seen in a public health perspective. Estimates made during this period of population exposures to noise from transport are presented, followed by data on population reactions to community noise. The analysis of the main elements of Danish community noise policy in the form of remedies, preventive actions and strategies leads to the conclusion that although exposures of the population to community noise have decreased during this period, the Danish policy was not consistent in the 1970s and 1980s. Administratively and politically, noise had low priority as an environment problem. The improvements in exposures from road traffic were probably mainly due to the legislation on physical planning, but also to lower speed limits and local traffic planning measures. During recent years important new steps have been taken, including the railway sector, but air traffic noise still represents a problem. Local authorities have, generally, been slow in giving priority to noise alleviating and preventive actions. Improved coordination at the central level is needed, and local action may raise the general awareness of the importance of our noise environment for health and well-being.