Noise protection
Noise is one of the environmental hazards most directly perceived by the public. Unlike many other environmental problems, noise has a direct impact on our daily lives—it disturbs our peace and quiet, impairs our concentration, and can pose a long-term health risk. In Austria, traffic—particularly road traffic—is the dominant source of noise.
At the same time, as mobility increases and cities become more densely populated, the challenge of implementing effective measures against noise pollution grows. Noise protection is therefore a central issue in environmental policy and affects both government institutions and every individual in their daily lives.
Noise is the environmental burden that the population feels most affected by due to its direct perceptibility. The main source of noise pollution in Austria is traffic, with road traffic being the dominant noise emitter. With the Environmental Noise Directive, an important step toward noise control has been taken across Europe.
Lärminfo – Central Platform for Information and Action
The Lärminfo platform plays a key role by providing comprehensive information on the noise situation in Austria. It includes:
- up-to-date noise maps
- action plans for noise reduction
- background information on the causes and effects of noise
- practical tips for reducing noise in everyday life
The strategic noise maps show the extent of noise pollution along major transportation infrastructure and in metropolitan areas and serve as the basis for action planning.
Noise maps (Lärminfo.at) (Website in German only)
Action planning (Lärminfo.at) (Website in German only)
A central idea here is that noise protection begins not only with large infrastructure projects but also in the daily behavior of every individual.
World Noise Awareness Day 2026 – Raising Awareness
An important component of the noise abatement strategy is raising public awareness. To this end, World Noise Awareness Day is held every year; in 2026, it will be observed on April 29.
The goal of this day of action is to draw attention to the effects of noise and highlight solutions. It has been observed internationally for many years and is also supported by numerous initiatives in Austria.
In 2026, the focus was particularly on:
- the health effects of noise
- the importance of consideration in everyday life
- concrete measures for noise prevention
Numerous events—such as interactive exhibitions, audio walks, or specialized events—made it possible to experience the topic in an understandable and practical way.
World Noise Awarness Day (Only in German)