Severity of Impact of Music Acoustics on Sustainability Performance of Buildings in Anambra State Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the severity of the impacts of loud music sounds on the sustainability performance of buildings across three main cities in Anambra State Nigeria. Being a survey research, questionnaires were distributed to the users and occupiers of different classes of buildings in the study area. The survey results were analysed using means score index and severity index percent. The study found that loud music sounds severely affect the sustainability performance of buildings socially, environmentally, economically and technically with average means scores and severity index percent ranging from 3.73 to 4.64 and 54.89% to 100% respectively. The study further found that there was no significant difference in the severity of the impacts of loud music sounds on the sustainability performance of the buildings between the three main cities in Anambra State except for social sustainability which was due to differences in the social status of the three cities. Based on this, the study calls for change in the design and construction of buildings that would incorporate the provisions of National Building Code as regards to sound control in buildings. It suggested a review and reactivation of existing zoning laws and policies in the State, and a need to borrow a leaf from Lagos State Government by enacting a law against noise pollution. It further suggested promotion of acoustic practices that would improve sustainability performance of the buildings and reduce the consequential effects of music sounds in buildings.