Noise pollution might not be as apparently detrimental to health as air or water pollution, but it can be highly disruptive, according to Ember. Some degree of ambient noise is to be expected, especially in city life. However, there is a difference between manageable or tolerable noise, and noise pollution. Noise pollution is defined as noise that is either excessive or unpleasant, and which causes “temporary disruption in the natural balance,” (Ember para. 2). The causes of noise pollution include electrical appliances, factory equipment, vehicles, and social congestion. The effects of noise pollution include stress, impaired hearing, and disruptions to the local ecosystem. Becoming more aware of the causes and effects of noise pollution should inspire changes to urban planning and design. Some of the known causes of noise pollution in cities include electrical appliances and vehicles. Therefore, noise pollution does not just take place outside the home, but also inside as people rely heavily on devices like computers, phones, and kitchen appliances that give off a humming sound even when they are not in use (Ember para. 7). When they are being used, home appliances like dishwashers, microwaves, blenders, and washing machines can...
Works Cited
Ember, Joan. “Understanding Noise Pollution.”
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