Investigation of the noise level in the city of Petrozavodsk

Noise pollution is the most important ecological indicator of the urban environment. Noise is one of the most aggressive types of urban pollution. The article presents a literary review of the concept of noise pollution and indicates the effect of noise on humans. The urban area (the city of Petrozavodsk) was investigated for noise pollution. The main part of the city was chosen for the study (with the exception of remote areas - Sulazhgora, 5-settlement, Solomennoye). The measurement was carried out with a device- sound level meter SHUM-1M30. Noise indicators were studied at different times of the year in areas of different intensity of use - parks, squares, along motorways and highways. In the course of the study, 3274 measurements were performed. During the foliage period (summer period), a minimum noise level of 25 dBA was observed in parks and squares, where there is a sufficient amount of green spaces. The maximum value of 52 dBA was observed in the area of major urban highways. In the autumn (leafless period), the minimum value of the noise level was 30 dBA, the maximum value of 59 dBA was also observed in the area of a major urban highway, where the traffic density was up to 606 vehicles per hour, including 45 cargo vehicles. Based on the results of the study, noise maps were compiled that reflect the levels of noise pollution of the urban environment in the summer and autumn. The maps were compiled with SOUNDPLAN software with subsequent processing in Adobe Photoshop. The study of noise pollution in the city of Petrozavodsk showed that, in general, the level of noise pollution in the city is within the norm. The noisiest areas are observed in places of vehicle clusters, as well as in places where there is no landscaping.