“Noise” is defined as unwanted and/or harmful sound. While no place can be quiet all the time, we should all be able to have a good night’s sleep, relax at home during the day and hear the birds in the trees.

Unfortunately, noise is not very well-monitored or controlled in many of our cities. We’re starting to change that, beginning with Toronto. Through our own weeklong measurement exercises and gathering information from the public, we are changing the conversation through presenting data to demonstrate the problem. We are also helping cities by providing solutions for how to reduce sound in the city.

Why Care About Noise?

Noise is a climate issue.
Drivers who illegally modify their vehicles to “amp up” their engine noise reduce or eliminate federally mandated emissions controls. The noise these modifications create drives us out of our backyards and balconies and forces us to close our windows at night and turn on air-conditioning or fans.

Noise is an equity issue.
Certain residents are exposed to higher levels of traffic noise and burdened with the highest levels of health impacts. Residents with lower incomes are often forced to live on busy streets and closer to industrial areas. Additionally, auditory cues for the visually impaired are muffled by noise when navigating busy streets. People who have had brain injuries are more susceptible to noise. Ultimately, noise creates additional barriers and safety issues for many.

None of us have a defense against noise.
We can’t close our ears, and our bodies can’t stop responding.

Please make a tax-deductible donation to help us amplify the message to build healthier, happier and greener cities, starting with Toronto.

In partnership with No More Noise.