Noise pollution generated by motor vehicles at different times on Avenue Paulista, municipality of São Paulo / SP

Abstract

Cities have shown high rates of population growth since the beginning of the twentieth century (at a greater intensity when compared to their development), which puts pressure on the environment intensifying the need of natural resources exploitation, as well as creating infrastructure problems. Among the impacts caused by the high densification of the population, noise pollution caused mainly by motor vehicles can be highlighted. This kind of urban impact, often ignored by the population and government, in addition to reducing people's quality of life and depreciating urban areas, can cause irreversible damage to public health. In this regard, this research brings, through measurements "in loco", the generation of noise by motor vehicles, in one of the main roads of the city of São Paulo. In addition to the data obtained, this research also analyzes them in the light of recommendations for technical standards and resolutions aimed at noise control. Through the analyzes conducted, it was found that the noise due to traffic, which is subject to the population that occupies (permanently or transiently) the surroundings of the road in studies, is above the recommended levels. In addition to momentary discomfort, the noise levels obtained have the potential to cause damage to the health of the population, such as hearing loss, attention deviations and even psychological problems. Therefore, it is hoped that this research will help to foster the debate about the impacts of noise pollution on the urban environment and the need for measures to be taken by municipal managers.