Noisy motorcycles, cars that run at full speed and frequently drivers roaring their exhaust, these nuisances are a routine for residents in urban areas.
Brussels is no exception to the rule. Sally admits that she often wakes up in a panic at night because of traffic noise. She is worried about her children. “_I often call the police but unfortunately for us it is not their priority _”, regrets the young woman.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 113 million people across Europe experience noise pollution night and day. This phenomenon does not only cause sleep disturbances and stress. It also causes hearing loss, tinnitus and heart problems. The European Union has regulations in this area but “_it must now be updated _”, insists Heather Brooks of the NGO Eurocities. She recalled that the WHO presented its guidelines on noise limits in 2018.
The Ghent strategy
To deal with this problem, the city of Ghent, in northern Belgium, has implemented a new strategy. Drivers who exceed the noise limit have their vehicle confiscated for at least 72 hours and must pay towing and parking fees. The burgomaster (the mayor) of the city, Mathias De Clercq, assures us that he has “nothing against using a car, but you have to have a good attitude”. The elected official says that he cares about the sleep of his fellow citizens as a priority. In Brussels, a petition is circulating to denounce noise pollution and to challenge politicians.
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