Noise Score 2 1.0

The prevalence of environmental sounds—from the gentle rustling of leaves to the disruptive noise of construction equipment—shapes our daily experience in significant ways. These sounds influence our stress levels, sleep quality, and overall health, yet awareness and understanding of the spatial and temporal distribution of these auditory environments remain limited. Often, the pervasive noise pollution is accepted as an inevitable consequence of modern, industrialized society, while quieter, more restorative spaces receive little public attention or promotion.

In response to this gap, the NoiseScore application leverages smartphone technology to quantify both the objective and subjective aspects of everyday soundscapes. This tool aims to provide users with insight into their local acoustic environment through measurable data and personal surveys.

With the NoiseScore app, users can:

• Objectively record sound levels via a calibrated sound level meter
• Subjectively describe their perception of the sound environment through brief questionnaires

This data can be utilized to:

• Map the spatial and temporal variations in noise exposure and perception within communities, identifying sources such as traffic, social events, or aircraft noise
• Identify quiet zones for respite and louder areas for awareness or avoidance

Some considerations to keep in mind:

1. The app’s sound level meter measures unweighted sound pressure levels (dB). A key research objective is to capture the full spectrum of noise, including low and high-frequency sounds that contribute to perceived loudness and physical sensation.
2. As an experimental tool, the measurement system is under ongoing review and refinement. Feedback from users is highly valued to enhance accuracy and reliability.
3. Although careful testing has been conducted, users may encounter technical issues. Since this is a work in progress, user input is essential for continued development; please report any difficulties encountered.

The NoiseScore project is a community-based research initiative developed and managed by Noise and the City, an advocacy organization founded by Erica Walker, postdoctoral researcher at Boston University School of Public Health within the Department of Environmental Health.

For additional information about this project, please visit us at www.noiseandthecity.com, noisescore.com, or www.noiseandthecity.org/noisescore.