NOISE Project 1.0.8

The NOISE Project (www.noiseproject.org) serves as a community-driven scientific initiative supported by the National Science Foundation, aiming to involve communities traditionally marginalized within the scientific enterprise. Led in partnership with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the project emphasizes inclusive collaboration and shared leadership.

This initiative prioritizes equity in addressing noise pollution, seeking to examine its effects on individual and community wellbeing. It seeks to foster awareness of how environmental injustices, systemic oppression, and racial inequities are intertwined with exposure to disruptive noise. The project aspires to connect residents with environments that support health and safety while acknowledging these broader social contexts.

In exploring the impacts of noise pollution, the project provides resources and research that illuminate its links to learning difficulties, behavioral issues in children, hearing loss, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular maladies, and adverse birth outcomes. Data indicates that communities characterized by racial segregation and economic hardship often face disproportionately higher levels of noise exposure.

The project involves measuring ambient noise levels using decibels (dB), with an accessible app that allows users to log local sound levels and monitor their mood states. Participants can identify quiet and safe spaces designated as NOISE REFUGES and contribute their data to ongoing assessments of community noise environments.

It is critical to highlight that sustained exposure to sound levels exceeding 85 dB(A) — especially over extended durations—poses risks such as permanent hearing impairment and additional health threats. Chronic exposure at levels above 100 dB(A) or 110 dB(A) can lead to serious health consequences, including increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lower birth weights, and developmental challenges.

Data collected through individual measurements is aggregated in personal reports and visualized on a community map. These tools enable users to examine local noise patterns over time and locate designated NOISE REFUGES—spaces identified as peaceful or safe based on collective input.

This project aims to transform traditional scientific practices by integrating community voices into research processes. Co-creation and shared leadership are central principles, ensuring that the benefits of research are directly realized within participating communities. The goal is to deepen understanding of how noise pollution impacts ecological systems, health outcomes, and social equity—ultimately fostering tangible change in policy and environment.

As part of its commitment to ethical collaboration, the project adheres to co-developed working agreements and community review board standards. To learn more about the process and organizational approach, visit: https://noiseproject.org/process/

The project acknowledges the significant contributions of numerous community partners, including The WorldBeat Center (San Diego), Metro Atlanta Urban Farm (Atlanta), Camp Compass Academy (Allentown), Comunidades Latinas Unidas en Servicio (St. Paul), Green Jay Bird Conservancy (Mexico), J.E.D.I. Heart (Oregon), Ndor Eco Village (Ghana), The Avarna Group (California), Daughters of Charity (USA), Nosotros Radio (New York), La Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino (New York), and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (New York).

This endeavor is supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. #DRL-1811234, focusing on engaging underrepresented communities in STEM research through authentic collaboration (The NOISE Project).