Noise Mapping

A noise map is normally generated using computer software that calculates noise
levels from input data such as traffic flows and topography (e.g. ground levels)
Computer modeling is used rather than noise measurement as measurement would
be prohibitively expensive and it would be technically difficult to isolate different
sources of noise (e.g. that from road, rail, aircraft or industry).
Noise maps are normally contour maps showing areas of differing levels of noise
They can be maps of individual noise sources i.e. road traffic, railway traffic, aircraft
in flight or industry. However, all the sources can be combined into one map to give
an overall picture of the noise climate.