Costs and effects of traffic noise abatement measures: Basis for a national programme

Abstract

The paper reports on a Norwegian study of the estimated costs and effects of different traffic noise abatement measures. The study describes the extent of road traffic noise problems and possible countermeasures in seven districts in the Norwegian towns of Oslo, Kristiansand and Harstad. The effects and costs of different abatement measures in the period 1986–2000 are calculated in order to suggest the most cost-effective policies. A simple extension of the results to the whole country forms a major basis for a new national traffic noise abatement programme. Without new abatement measures the present noise situation in the study areas will improve by the year 2000, but the traffic noise problems will by no means be solved. New action is needed, and according to this study, the most cost-effective abatement measures are stricter noise regulations for motor vehicles, area traffic management, low-noise road surfaces and insulation of the most exposed dwellings. Priority should be given to actions in densely populated, central urban areas.