METODOLOGÍA PARA EVALUAR EL IMPACTO DEL RUIDO DE LOS VEHÍCULOS PESADOS SOBRE LA SALUD HUMANA. APLICACIÓN AL CLÚSTER CERÁMICO DE CASTELLÓN

Abstract

Noise emitted by road traffic is one of the major issues affecting human health and well-being, especially in urban environments. In our study we develop a methodology to quantify the impact of traffic noise upon human health within the framework of the Life Cycle Assessment methodology. In the first place, sound levels are quantified through the application of emission and propagation models given in terms of traffic characteristics (vehicle flows, speeds, types…) and environmental conditions. Once sound levels are known, the population exposed to excessive noise is quantified by means of GIS (Geographic Information System) technology before the effects of noise upon human health can be assessed using the unit called DALY (Disability-Adjusted Life Years). This methodology was applied to the industrial cluster comprising the ceramic plants nearby Castellón (Spain) in order to quantify the impacts of noise associated to heavy vehicles transporting ceramic raw materials and finished goods. This methodology may be a useful tool to support authorities in decision-making concerning local action plans. Keywords: Noise, Traffic, Life Cycle Assessment, Geographic Information System, Ceramic Industry Cluster