Noise is recognised by the EU's Sixth Environmental Action Plan as "a growing problem that is estimated to affect the health and quality of life of at least 25% of the EU population. It raises stress levels, disrupts sleep and can lead to an increased risk of hearing diseases". Europe's ports are prone to being particularly noisy areas due to the large amount of constant and varied activity that occurs in such industrial transport hubs.

The EU Noise Directive 2002/49/EC sets out requirements for industrial port areas to be included in strategic noise maps. These noise maps are designed to assess the levels of noise exposure experienced by local populations in order to help identify options for protecting communities from excessive noise. The Directive, however, is formulated in a general way and does not specify how to define or develop noise maps for ports. A number of EU Port Authorities were aware of these issues and sought LIFE Environment support to help develop a dedicated, but adaptable, set of good practice guidelines for noise mapping and management methodologies in port areas.

Source: Life

(02/03/10)