Air and water quality as well as aesthetic appeal are automatically considered in most urban designs. Why don't we take noise pollution just as seriously?

New York is just about to implement its own updated noise-code - can the city really retain its vibrancy and at the same time become quieter?

Another city is attempting to do just that. The citizens of Stockholm are this year being given a chance to vote for their favourite 'sound sanctuaries' - places of quiet and reflection, or of acoustic interest, in a busy metropolis.

Another way of making people more aware of the sounds around them is to get teenagers involved. Some research suggests young people's preference for damagingly loud music may be caused by nursery schools being far too loud.

And some of the toughest noise-regulation in the world has been issued by the Indian Central Government - we take a look at how successful implementation has been.

Listen again
	Noise can be curbed

External links
The Interactive Agents responsible for Stockholm's sound sanctuaries
AMMOT - Artists and Musicians with Tinnitus
The Farm Noise and Hearing Network, Australia

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