Jamie Banks, once troubled by incessant noise from landscaping machines in her Lincoln, Massachusetts home, took action to address the pervasive issue. Her journey began with lobbying local government for seven years to ban gas-powered leaf blowers during the summer months. This achievement spurred her to found Quiet Communities, a nonprofit that, in June 2023, sued the EPA for neglecting to enforce regulations against various loud noises, from motorcycles to factories.

Banks, a health-care specialist and environmental scientist, is driven by her belief in the detrimental effects of noise beyond just hearing damage, citing impacts on cardiovascular health, sleep, and cognitive function. Her efforts are supported by scientific findings, such as the World Health Organization's recommendation to limit daily noise exposure to protect public health.

Historically, noise regulation has lagged behind other environmental concerns, but studies increasingly link noise to broader health issues, from learning impairments in children to heightened risks of heart disease in adults. Despite setbacks, including funding cuts to the EPA’s noise-control office, advocates like Banks continue to push for comprehensive noise regulations and public awareness.

With ongoing research exploring noise’s biological impacts and community-driven efforts to mitigate noise pollution, Banks remains hopeful for a future where noise standards are enforced and communities can enjoy healthier, quieter environments. Her work reflects a growing recognition of noise as a serious public health issue deserving of greater attention and action.

Read the full story here:

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/everyday-noises-can-hurt-hearts-not-just-ears-and-the-ability-to-learn/