Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Noise pollution refers to excessive or disturbing noise that can have negative effects on human health and the environment. It includes sounds from sources such as traffic, construction, industrial activities, and loud music.
Related terms
Environmental noise: Environmental noise refers specifically to unwanted or harmful sounds in the environment that can cause annoyance or health issues.
Sound pollution: Sound pollution is another term used interchangeably with noise pollution, emphasizing the negative impact of excessive or disruptive sounds on individuals and ecosystems.
Decibel (dB): Decibel is a unit used to measure the intensity of sound. It helps quantify the level of noise pollution in different settings.