Noise pollution in national parks: Soundscape and economic valuation

Abstract

In this study a national park soundscape characterisation was contrasted with an economic estimation of the impact of noise pollution on the park visitors’ perception. The main noise sources were identified and the noise-pollution levels were assessed along a pathway that is highly frequented by hikers in a natural park in the mountains of central Spain. The results showed noticeable soundscape degradation during the visitors’ leisure experience (sound pressure levels increased approximately 4.5 dB from natural ambient levels). Visitors’ voices and conversations were as great of a nuisance to themselves as were aircraft overflights and road traffic. Using the contingent valuation method, the willingness to pay for the financing of a programme aimed at mitigating noise in the park was estimated. The results showed that visitors would be willing to pay an entrance fee of approximately 1 euro if this noise-reduction programme were to be implemented in the park.