The Sound Of silence

We're all familiar with mapping streets, utilities, property, topographic features, and zoning categories . But mapmakers in England are taking on the task of mapping a different feature: Noise. Cartographers are charting decibel levels along major roads in 20 English towns and cities as part of the Government program to tackle noise pollution.

Local Environmental Quality Minister, Ben Bradshaw explains, "By creating noise maps we can get a better understanding of the overall situation and target our efforts to tackle unwanted noise where it is really needed. By creating more of these maps we can help Government, local authorities, planners and the public better understand noise levels and work more efficiently to reduce the number of people who are exposed to high levels of noise.

New maps to pin sound down in British cities
Source: www.edie.net