Nature’s Therapy Interrupted: Traffic Noise Undermines Birdsong Benefits
What Happened
Researchers from the University of Surrey found that listening to birdsong and other natural soundscapes improves relaxation and well-being, but even low levels of traffic noise can significantly reduce those benefits. In studies involving more than 1,500 participants, traffic sounds weakened feelings of restoration and increased physiological signs of stress, even when noise levels were below World Health Organization daytime guidelines.
Key Takeaways
The findings suggest that preserving quiet natural spaces is just as important as creating green spaces. Reducing traffic noise around parks and nature areas could help maximize the mental-health benefits that birdsong and natural environments provide.