IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN EUROPE THROUGH LOW NOISE PAVEMENTS

Road noise is recognised as having an impact on the comfort of those who live next to, or near busy roads. It is also known that continued exposure to road noise can pose risks to people’s health and wellbeing. The use of low noise pavements is an effective measure to mitigate the issues and many road authorities now build low noise pavements on new roads and on existing roads when they need resurfacing, thought the practice varies across Europe. Low noise pavements are more costly to install than standard pavements however, whilst there are concerns around their longevity 1

The development of low noise pavements was recognised as an important element in FEHRL’s 6th Strategic European Road Research Plan covering 2017 – 2020 and as a result a working group has been established comprising FEHRL members with an interest in this important topic, led by Dr Judita Škulteckė of VILNIUS TECH.

The group seeks to develop and exchange knowledge in has 4 broad areas; 1) how to improve the performance of new low noise pavements, 2) improve maintenance options of existing ones, 3) improving the performance and endurance of low noise pavements in cold climates, and finally 4) to compare the different techniques and technologies for monitoring road noise.

As reported in FIRM18 in February 2022, the group undertook a survey to better understand the types of pavements use and general policies towards low noise pavements in Europe.

The results in general showed that asphalt pavements are the most popular type of low noise pavements in Europe. However, countries have different approaches regarding how low noise pavements are categorised since there is no universal definition. This complicates the analysis of the survey results and the comparison of the performance of low noise pavements between different countries.

We have now collected information on the past experience and current practice regarding mixture composition and requirements as well as mechanical and acoustical performance of newly constructed low noise pavements and those in use for several years. Our aim in 2023 is to publish an article in a peer reviewed journal and to submit a conference paper in Forum Acusticum 2023 based on the collected information. Achieving this objective will be important in raising awareness of the work being undertaken in this area, and highlighting future tasks required to be undertaken.

 To find out more about this initiative or get involved, please contact initiative leader Judita Škulteckė at judita.skultecke@vilniustech.lt or FEHRL Programme Manager, Martin Lamb at martin.lamb@fehrl.org