Noise pollution: The silent killer threatening millions across Europe
A new report from the European Environment Agency (EEA) reveals the widespread and underestimated health threat posed by noise pollution across Europe. According to the findings, more than 110 million people are exposed to harmful levels of noise, mainly from cars, trains, and airplanes, leading to chronic stress, sleep disorders, and an estimated 66,000 premature deaths annually.
The study shows that 20% of the population in the European Economic Area (EEA) is affected. Around 17 million people are exposed to “long-term, high annoyance” noise levels, and nearly 5 million suffer from “severe” sleep disturbance. Alarmingly, 15 million children live in areas with dangerous noise levels.
Noise pollution is now considered a greater health risk than passive smoking or lead exposure, with estimated economic costs nearing €100 billion each year.
Constant stress response damages the body
Dr. Eulalia Peris from the EEA warns that noise keeps the body in a perpetual fight-or-flight mode, often without people realizing it. “This can trigger harmful physiological reactions like inflammation and oxidative stress, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, obesity, cognitive decline in children, and mental health issues,” she said.
“It’s not just a nuisance,” added Peris, who admitted she has also been personally affected by noise pollution. “It limits your life.”
The report highlights that road traffic noise is the most widespread, affecting 92 million people, followed by rail noise impacting 18 million, and aircraft noise affecting 2.6 million people.
Solutions exist — but require action
While the problem is significant, experts point to solutions that are within reach: lowering urban speed limits, increasing the use of low-noise tires, improving public transport, and encouraging walking and cycling.
Interestingly, the rise of electric vehicles may help less than expected, as the main source of traffic noise at lower speeds is tire-road contact, not the engine.
Rail noise can be reduced through better train and track maintenance, while aircraft noise could be tackled with quieter planes and optimized flight patterns.
EEA Executive Director Leena Ylä-Mononen emphasized that noise is often overlooked as “just a part of everyday life,” but its long-term health and environmental effects are “widespread and serious.”
“Children are particularly vulnerable,” she added, calling on governments across Europe to address the issue as a public health priority.
