Analysis
We found that 83% of our respondents are affected by aircraft noise in their daily social lives. The most common interruptions included sleep, conversations and leisure listening (T.V). Residents are woken up at 5:50am in the morning and Sydenham is affected by aircraft noise on a 24 hour basis.[1] On a particular day, the area may be exposed to 403 planes, consistently averaging 17 planes per hour. [2]This shows the extent of the issue, it is clearly evident it occurs all through day and night. Generally the planes that fly by Sydenham are around 85dB[3] which is capable of damaging the ear. The aircrafts fly really low as shown in the photos and the closer the plane is to the ground, the louder its noise to the area. They fly over the residential area of Sydenham and although many houses have double glazed windows and other precautions to reduce the noise impact, they are still affected nonetheless. Scientific research shows that aircraft noise releases pollutants which are both harmful to people and the environment. Such pollutants include carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide which also contribute to climate change.[4] Even with the constant number of planes flying over Sydenham, the quality of air isn’t strongly affected; having no visible or direct affect to the environment as shown through our survey (17 of our 18 respondents.) Research also shows a link between high levels of aircraft noise and damage in human health. These mainly include mental illnesses, physical/psychological/cardiovascular effects and hearing impairment in extreme levels.[5] Once again, there is no visible proof and 85% of our respondents believe there’s no related link. Actions have already been taken in place such as the night time curfew and insulation program on affected houses but only reduce the impact. The No Aircraft Party wants to replace the current airport at a new site location at Wilton.[6] However, a majority 70% of our respondents believe action isn’t necessary. They believe that although the issue is big, it can be dealt with. We can conclude that aircraft noise does impact the environment and personal health but these affect aren’t visible. It has many social impacts on locals and occurs on a 24 hour basis.
[1] . http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sound-of-silence-under-the-flight-path/story-fn6b3v4f-1226080184573-
[2] http://sitebuilder.yola.com/en_US/ide/index.jsp?siteid=8a4986c939213a45013927d84b273816#
[3] AirTrak Services
[4] http://areco.org/planetr.pdf
[5] http://areco.org/planetr.pdf
[6] http://www.noaircraftnoise.org.au/Index.asp?pagename=The+Solution&site=1&siteid=186
