International Noise Awareness Day 2025

Wednesday marked International Noise Awareness Day and this day, observed annually on the last Wednesday of April, serves to highlight the risks of noise as a health hazard.

This year's theme, ‘Noise-induced Hearing Loss: Permanent Yet Preventable’, highlights how you can make a difference.

PICTURE: Bush Radio

According to the City of Cape Town, it recorded a 57% increase (from 1 216 to 1 905 in the 2023/24 financial year) in noise complaints in the past two years.  In the current financial year, the number of complaints is yet again nearing the 2 000 mark.

MMC for Community Services & Health, Francine Higham, says the top sources of noise complaints in Cape Town are places of late-night entertainment, events with amplified sound and residential business/workshop noise.

‘’Noise ranks as one of the top complaints to City Health. Our specialised health services work to resolve as many complaints as possible, but this is a shared responsibility. It starts with understanding what constitutes noise, how we are potentially contributing to it, and what can be done practically to mitigate the impact on others. It is also important to make a distinction between noise pollution and noise disturbance, as one is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies and the other is the responsibility of City Health.’’

Here are tips on how you can make a difference:

·        Lower Your Volume

Simple actions like reducing the volume on your devices can make a significant difference. Encourage those around you to do the same.

·        Support Quiet Initiatives

Advocate for policies that reduce noise pollution, such as better zoning laws or quieter street designs. Your involvement can drive change in your community.

·        Seek Silence

Spend time in nature or quiet spaces to alleviate stress and improve mental health. Regular breaks from urban noise can refresh your mind and body.

·        Spread the Word

Educate friends, family, and colleagues about the impact of noise pollution. Sharing information helps raise awareness and promotes a quieter lifestyle.

‘’Every small effort contributes to a greater good. This International Noise Awareness Day, let's pledge to reduce the noise around us and cultivate a quieter, healthier future. Join the movement and make silence a part of our daily rhythm,’’ said Higham.

 

Done by: Mitchum George