Representation of Population Exposure to Noise

Pays d’Aix (Community of Agglomeration of the Aix)

In July 2002, the European Union adopted a directive on environmental noise that required authorities to draw up “strategic noise maps” for major roads, railways, airports, and agglomerations; to draw up action plans to reduce noise where necessary; and to maintain environmental noise quality where it is good.

This map reflects a study of the vast region surrounding Aix-en-Provence in the south of France to determine levels of daytime noise pollution and strategies for preventing or mitigating excessive levels. The map represents the population’s exposure to noise from transportation facilities, industries, and other sources. Noise levels are represented at a 5-decibel (A-weighted) interval by different colors, with green for quieter areas and blue for louder ones.

Courtesy of Communauté d'Agglomération du Pays d'Aix.

Map Book Page [PDF]