San Francisco Airport adopts “Quiet Airport” plan
San Francisco Airport adopts a "Quiet Airport” plan, reports Dr. Arline Bronzaft, who says it’s a great first step but urges the airport to promote its plan to other airports and the FAA.
Noisy and dangerous helicopters assault NYC skies
Dr. Arline Bronzaft reviews an article on noisy and dangerous helicopters assaulting NYC skies. Bills exist to address the problem, she writes, but the political will does not.
The urban soundscape during COVID
The urban soundscape during COVID is not just about new found quiet. Dr. Daniel Fink reviews an essay by Kate Wagner in which she discusses the tension between wanting urban quiet while supporting civil rights demonstrations.
Gordon Hempton launches Quiet Parks International
Gordon Hempton launches Quiet Parks International, and The Quiet Coalition’s co-founder, Dr. Arline Bronzaft, will serve on the group’s advisory board.
The importance of reducing urban noise
Dr. Arline Bronzaft writes about the importance of reducing urban noise, noting that research shows that urban dwellers are suffering from the harmful effects of noise.
How the lockdown allows us to hear nature
Dr. Arline Bronzaft writes the lockdown is allowing us to hear nature. Given that loud urban noise negatively affects our health, its decrease is a good thing in this otherwise anxious time.
A quieter world is possible
A quieter world is possible, writes Dr. Arline Bronzaft. She asks if once the pandemic passes whether people will remember the comfort that quiet brings to their lives.
One woman’s search for a noise-free life
Dr. Daniel Fink recommends Emma Beddington’s essay on her search for a noise-free life. We can deal with noise, he notes, but reducing it at its source is best.
There is value in the sudden quiet
David Sykes tells us about a fascinating essay on the value of sudden quiet. MIT physicist Alan Lightman says it gives us a chance to think about who we are.
April 29 is International Noise Awareness Day
April 29 is International Noise Awareness Day, and Dr. Daniel Fink wonders if people worldwide will focus on listening now that lockdowns have resulted in dramatic reductions in noise.