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Noise pollution is a form of violence, a danger that threatens the health of everyone. We are talking about the second environmental hazard, after the air pollution.

The European Union has a maximum of 55 dB, to prevent the negative effects of sound on our health. Millions of people are exposed to traffic noise, but also to the noise caused by railways and factories.

The highest levels of noise pollution have been observed in Guangzhou, of China and from quiet towns is Zurich. 'Advanced' European cities are taking steps to reduce noise pollution, such as special paving materials for roads, quiet areas where noise is prohibited, urban quiet areas for leisure activities and programs that promote walking, biking, and tree protection, as natural sounds contribute positively to the city's sound.

They also lower the speed limits replace tram and subway rails and transport large out-of-town freight stations.  The soundproof windows, the prohibition of heavy vehicles night traffic, the modernization of public transport and the conversion of roads into mild roads or pedestrians are still some of the actions being implemented.

In Greece the whole set of practices remain in a vague context. The study of sound insulation of buildings is not mandatory and the building regulation is old and has not been harmonized with technological developments.

The most common hearing problem is ear tinnitus, that is, the perception of a sound that sounds like a whistle or a rattle. This can cause problems such as irritability and reduced efficiency. However, there are more serious problems such as hearing trauma and hearing loss. Loud sounds also increase heart rate and heart disease. The frequency of sleep is also negatively affected, the body responds to noise even when asleep. As for the children, damages performance, understanding and concentration. There are also psychological effects such as feeling unhappy, discomfort and lack of satisfaction, arising when noise impedes thought and activity.

Part of text from Papadodimitraki M. pontoon magazine (2019)