Policy and societal relevance of traffic noise models in urban zones

Road traffic noise is a matter of challenge for both people and policymakers. For instance, the price of lands/houses which are close to road traffic noise is reduced. The key objective of this study is to propose a conceptual model to illustrate details of a road traffic noise model, along with its policy and societal relevance. The second objective is to consider the honking of horns in such a conceptual model, as honking is a remarkable traffic noise factor, however, it has been neglected in some noise abatement policies.

By the use of previously proposed traffic noise models, some attempts were made to figure out how the models were applicable in minimizing road noise and how they would be helpful for environmentalists in conducting Environmental Impact Assessment. The proposed models were used to design a conceptual model explaining how policymakers and people in the urban areas may implement the traffic noise models. 

5 groups of policymakers including roadway engineers, acoustical engineers, acoustic specialists, expert witnesses, and traffic engineers; and 5 groups in the society comprising drivers, people, health practitioners, property owners, and ecosystem may benefit from the traffic noise models. Finally, a conceptual model entailing 3 actors of a traffic noise model (meteorological, traffic, and infrastructure factors) and its 2 outputs i.e. equivalent and maximum noise levels were obtained. 

Given the conceptual model derived from the road traffic noise models, one is capable of understanding their policy and societal relevance. It is recommended dynamic road noise maps of urban areas be obtained using the models during various times of day and night so that number of inhabitants in different noise spectrums of the map to be specified. Such a noise map is beneficial for both people and policymakers.