Indicators of Sustainable Development

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Indicator: Noise levels K8
Population exposure to different noise levels outside the home: 1990 and 2000  
a) Noise level exceeded for 10 per cent of the 16 hour period (L 10, 16 H)
Change since
dots 1970
cross 1990
cross 1990

Coverage: England and Wales

Source: BRE

Indicator Chart
b) Noise level exceeded for 90 per cent of the 16 hour period (L 90, 16 H)
Indicator Chart
Objective: Attractive streets and buildings, low levels of traffic, noise and pollution, green spaces
  • The proportion of the population exposed to noise levels exceeding 50 decibels for more than 10 per cent of a sixteen hour period increased from 81 per cent in 1990 to 85 per cent in 2000.
  • The proportion of the population exposed to 40 decibels or more of background noise (noise exceeded for more than 90 per cent of a sixteen hour period) increased from 64 per cent in 1990 to 70 per cent in 2000.
Note: [1] Measured over 16 hour period (1700 to 2300) 1 metre from the dwelling

Page last modified: 21 April 2004  |  Page published: 21 April 2004