According to the WHO about 40% of the population in the EU are exposed to road traffic noise exceeding 55 dB(A) during daytime. More than 30% are exposed at night.

Very extensive traffic noise exposure mapping and noise abatement are required of the member states to comply with the EU maximum limit of 55 dB (A). Investments in improvements such as noise screens, façade insulation, better windows and dampening asphalts are necessary. The economic loss incurred by traffi c noise is considerable. Noise from a motorway will typically reduce the value of a property by 1.6% for every decibel above 55 dB according to the Environment Protection Agency in Denmark. For a house worth €200,000 the cost of 65 dB will be €32,000.

A 10 dB difference is perceived by the human ear as a doubling (or halving) of the audible sound.