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9 results for "noise pollution"

Tiny Pocket Gardens Cut Urban Heat, Flood Risk, and Noise
InnovationApr 1

Tiny Pocket Gardens Cut Urban Heat, Flood Risk, and Noise

Cities are transforming underused concrete spaces into small "pocket gardens" that cool neighborhoods, absorb stormwater, and reduce noise pollution. These mini oases are proving that a little greenery can solve big urban problems.

Grist3 min read
Retractable Studded Tires Cut Road Damage and Noise
InnovationMar 30

Retractable Studded Tires Cut Road Damage and Noise

Finnish tire maker Nokian invented studded winter tires that retract when not needed, potentially solving the biggest downsides of snow tires. The innovation could save roads, reduce noise pollution, and cut harmful air particles while keeping drivers safe.

The Verge2 min read
1949 Whale Song Recording Reveals Ocean's Quieter Past
Planet WinsMar 18

1949 Whale Song Recording Reveals Ocean's Quieter Past

Scientists discovered the oldest whale song ever recorded, captured in 1949 off Bermuda's coast when oceans were far quieter than today. This rare audio treasure gives researchers a baseline to measure how human noise pollution now affects whale communication and survival.

Google News - Scientists Discover3 min read
Barcelona Cuts Street Noise 3dB With Pedestrian Green Axes
Planet WinsMar 5

Barcelona Cuts Street Noise 3dB With Pedestrian Green Axes

Barcelona's experiment in turning car-heavy streets into pedestrian green spaces just proved what health experts have been hoping for: less traffic really does mean quieter, more livable neighborhoods. After one year, residents are using their balconies more and street-facing rooms are finally peaceful enough to enjoy.

Phys.org - Earth3 min read
Porpoises Can 'Turn Down' Their Hearing to Block Ship Noise
Planet WinsMar 3

Porpoises Can 'Turn Down' Their Hearing to Block Ship Noise

Scientists discovered that harbor porpoises possess a natural defense against the ocean's growing noise pollution: they can dial down their hearing sensitivity when loud sounds approach. This biological superpower helps protect one of their most vital senses in an increasingly noisy marine world.

Phys.org3 min read
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Planet WinsFeb 27

Norway Launches Electric Sightseeing Ships for Quieter Seas

Norway is introducing electric sightseeing vessels that will dramatically reduce noise pollution and emissions in its famous fjords. The ships promise a more peaceful experience for passengers while protecting marine wildlife.

Google News - Norway Green Energy2 min read
Noise Pollution Harms Birds—But We Know How to Fix It
Planet WinsFeb 11

Noise Pollution Harms Birds—But We Know How to Fix It

New research shows human noise is harming bird reproduction and survival across 160 species worldwide. The good news? Scientists say we already have the tools to reverse the damage.

Phys.org3 min read
UN Ships Agree to Quiet Down for Arctic Narwhals
Planet WinsFeb 2

UN Ships Agree to Quiet Down for Arctic Narwhals

Global shipping regulators just approved new guidance to reduce underwater noise threatening narwhals and other Arctic whales. Simple fixes like slower speeds and cleaner hulls could cut noise pollution nearly in half while saving fuel.

Inside Climate News2 min read
E-Bike Batteries Replace Smelly Generators at NYC Food Carts
SolutionsJan 24

E-Bike Batteries Replace Smelly Generators at NYC Food Carts

A Brooklyn startup is helping food cart owners ditch noisy, smelly gas generators by swapping in clean e-bike batteries instead. The solution costs about the same but eliminates fumes and noise pollution that drove customers away.

TechCrunch3 min read