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City-wide space-time patterns of environmental noise pollution in Kigali, Rwanda
Jean Remy Kubwimana1,2, Sierra N Clark3, James Nimo4,5
1School of Computational and Communication Science and Engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Arusha, Tanzania.
Environmental noise in Kigali, Rwanda, often exceeds national standards, particularly in commercial and high-density residential areas. This study highlights the need for urban policy to address noise pollution as cities grow.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Planning
- Acoustics
Background:
- Noise pollution is a growing concern in rapidly urbanizing sub-Saharan African cities.
- Limited data and policy efforts exist for environmental noise pollution compared to air pollution.
- Kigali presents a unique case study due to its distinct topography and regulatory system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize environmental noise patterns in Kigali, Rwanda.
- To inform urban policy regarding noise pollution.
- To compare noise levels with Rwandan standards and international guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Established 130 monitoring sites (10 fixed, 120 rotating) across diverse neighborhoods.
- Collected yearlong and weeklong noise samples (November 2022 - December 2023).
- Computed noise metrics including LAeq1h, LAeq24h, Lday, and Lnight.
Main Results:
- Daily noise levels ranged from 38 dBA to 85 dBA.
- Commercial, business, industrial (CBI), and high-density residential (HD) areas showed the highest noise levels.
- 63% of daytime and 69% of nighttime values exceeded Rwandan standards.
Conclusions:
- Environmental noise in Kigali frequently surpasses established standards, posing risks to residents.
- Urban growth and densification necessitate targeted environmental policies.
- Further assessment of noise sources, at-risk populations, and health effects is crucial.
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