Environmental Burden of Noise and Human Health Concern: A Review

Abstract

Unnecessary, undesirable, or disruptive sound in the environment - noise pollution - is an environmental hazard. Noise pollution affects the quality of social and personal life in metropolitan areas. This study reviews the environmental burden of noise and its contribution to physical and mental health problems in Bangladesh. The study extracted data about the degree and impact of national noise pollution through several search engines using keywords and Boolean operators, followed by the PRISMA statement in every phase of literature searching. Major sources include road, air and rail traffic, construction, loudspeakers, industrial activities, and household appliances. Most studies identify road traffic as the main contributor in metropolitan cities of Bangladesh, with recorded highest average levels (132.5 dBA, 2020-2025) at daytime, far exceeding the tolerable limit of the WHO average standard (55 dBA). There are many laws in the country to control noise pollution, but this study identifies the lack of enforcement of these laws. High noise exposure is associated with hearing impairment, nervous system damage, reduced productivity, sleep disturbance, cardiovascular and neural disorders, and some psychological problems. Noise-related health costs and property value losses impose a substantial economic burden. The study recommends the development of effective management strategies in affected areas to reduce noise pollution.