How are you today? Nice, good, wonderful~! GREAT!

Have you ever got annoyed by loud noise surrounding you?

Now, all the governments are in action for noise pollution~! Let?s go and take a look!!

Today's article will be done in an interview format, so pay attention as conversation goes on!!

Q) What can we do when the neighbors are too noisy? Are there any laws in Korea regarding noise pollution?

A) In response the government decided to regulate noise in residential areas. Currently there are seven ministries governing noise according to venues, but the government will integrate the function into one.  Revised regulations will concentrate on lessening the noise from karaoke bars, restaurants, piano lesson rooms, large air conditioning systems and commercial facilities.  Large roads and construction sites will be required to install noise-prevention equipment.  In addition, facilities near temples or residential areas will be required to keep noise levels at less than 40 decibels at night, 45 in the morning and evening and 50 in the daytime.  In commercial areas, levels up to 55 decibels will be allowed.   

Q) When I try to sleep, I constantly hear cars and automobiles honking outside.  How is America trying to solve this problem?

A) Since 1972, when the Noise Control Act was passed, the Environmental Protection Agency has been responsible for researching and regulating noise pollution in the United States.  The Noise Control Act reads, "The Congress declares that it is the policy of the United States to promote an environment for all Americans free from noise that jeopardizes their health or welfare."  Between 1972 and 1981, EPA's Office of Noise Abatement and Control trained community leaders in ways to reduce noise pollution, and recommended numerous regulations to reduce the impact.  Its work was designed to educate communities and set uniform emission standards throughout the country.

Q) I heard that in England more than 50% of people feel noise effects in their private home life and the government is actually concerned about this issue.  What exactly are they doing?

A) Local authorities implemented policies under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.  In their 2009 report, the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution (RCEP) expressed concern about the potential for artificial light to have an adverse ecological impact and called for further research.  Government disseminated information regarding noise and nuisance policy and provided a supporting role to local authorities.  The government through local authorities identified and protected quiet areas in order to improve quality of life.  The Noise Policy Statement for England provided the framework for noise management decisions to be made that ensure noise levels do not place an unacceptable burden on society.

Q) Are there any ways I can deal personally with annoying noise occurring from children upstairs jumping around?  

A) You can first talk to the person responsible for the noise.  Most of the people who make noise do not know the fact that it may cause significant problems to other neighbors.  By letting them know that somebody is distracted by the noise they make, they would be able to control their behaviors and think about others before they start to do their own activities.  If this does not work, you can definitely report the noise nuisance to the local council.  Usually, their environmental health department will deal with noise issues and give you useful advice.  In case of sound from industrial sites, The Environment Agency will keep record and monitor management plans submitted by the operators and set certain rules of large factories and waste sites.