Sustainable Acoustics

April 24, 2019

Are poor acoustics hurting your health? There’s been significant research demonstrating the negative impact that exposure to noise pollution has on our psychological and physiological wellbeing.

Noise pollution should be taken seriously. It can interrupt your sleep, increase your heart rate and blood pressure, and it can impede your motor skills and intellectual function. 

Measurement of noise pollution

To regulate noise pollution and reduce the estimated 52 billion dollars spent in Europe each year, both the EEA and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have commented on the noise levels that EU citizens are exposed to and what levels would be more appropriate.  

In an attempt to reduce noise pollution, both the EEA and WHO have recommended regulating noise to 40-dB at night and to 65-dB during the day. Some local municipalities and cities are following suit, placing noise restrictions for late night events.

However, noise pollution is not only something that we encounter outside; it is something that is also present inside restaurants, schools, the office and the home.

Healthy design and a sustainable balance

Given that we spend the vast majority of our time indoors, it is also important to regulate room acoustics as well.  There are multiple studies acknowledging that a building's acoustics are the second most important physical feature of a building.

Creating a balanced acoustic atmosphere, which is dynamic and invites conversation, while respecting privacy, can be an important aspect of creating social sustainability.

Solutions for noise pollution and noise dampening design

Stone wool, the core material used in Rockfon acoustic solutions, is by nature a highly sound-absorbent material. It allows you to achieve high levels of acoustic comfort that support healthy and sustainable living. 

Let’s encourage acoustic comfort by building with the users in mind.  Contact us and learn about how we can help you.

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