The Role of Living Walls In Reducing Noise Pollution

Noise pollution poses a significant problem in the UK, with residents of many towns and cities being regularly exposed to unsafe levels of noise. London was named by the UN as one of the noisiest cities in Europe, with noise levels hitting 86dB regularly, far higher than the recommended safe threshold of 53dB. Between the constant buzz of traffic, construction work and other sources of noise, excessive noise pollution can impact both physical and mental wellbeing.  

As businesses look for more ways to create healthier, more supportive workplaces, tackling noise pollution should be a top priority for businesses. One way to achieve this is through living walls, which have been proven to help reduce noise pollution, as well as additional benefits for workplaces. 

Learn more about the living walls, their impact on noise pollution and how they can provide many benefits for your business. 

What is noise pollution? 

Noise pollution refers to excessive or disruptive noise that can impact everyday activities and lead to stress, as well as potentially cause physical harm. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can lead to hearing issues, poor sleep and other potentially serious health issues. It can also impact productivity and focus, which is something that can have a significant effect on individuals and businesses. 

Why is noise pollution a cause for concern? 

The effects of noise on health and well-being are well documented, and as towns and cities continue to develop, there’s potential for noise pollution to become progressively worse. Noise pollution can also be linked to air pollution, with many of the causes of excess noise responsible for polluting the environment such as traffic and construction. 

It’s enough to make governments start to act. This year, Wales became the first nation in the UK to make a commitment to improving noise pollution, with plans to introduce a soundscapes strategy. Other UK governments could follow suit, implementing plans that would benefit towns and cities across the UK. 

What is a living wall? 

A living wall is a type of structure that incorporates greenery, flowers, and vegetation to create beautiful designs that can be built around walls, fences and other outdoor structures. They not only boost the aesthetic appeal of an outdoor space, but they also provide many health benefits.  

How can living walls reduce noise pollution? 

Living walls have been found to help reduce noise pollution in two key ways: 

Sound absorption 

Living walls can serve as natural sound absorbers. This is because they reduce reflection, which can transmit sound waves. Made up of several materials, including plants, flowers, and soil, living walls can help absorb and dampen noise, reducing its impact.  

When the plants and soil absorb the sound waves, they become scattered, meaning they can’t be bounced back into the environment. Sound panels are a key tool for reducing noise in indoor spaces, but living walls can provide the natural sound absorption that can help create a more welcoming and pleasant environment. 

Noise masking

In addition to sound absorption, living walls can also help to mask noise. Rustling leaves, water features and the attraction of nature such as birds and bees can create a natural soundscape that can mask more undesirable noises. These noises can help promote a sense of calm, helping to ease the impact of stress that noise pollution can cause. 

The other benefits of living walls

In addition to the noise pollution benefits, living walls can other benefits for businesses, including: 

Improved mental health 

Living walls help bring an element of nature to the busiest of urban environments. Nature and greenery have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, improving mood and easing stress. Having a living wall as part of your premises can help create a therapeutic environment that can be enjoyed by many. 

Aesthetic appeal 

The other benefit of living walls is their aesthetic appeal. Living walls allow businesses to get creative, using designs that bring colour and natural beauty to a space. It’s a simple and effective way to dress your outdoor area, helping to attract passers-by and make a memorable first impression. 

Use living walls to transform your business with phs Greenleaf 

As businesses look for new ways to create healthier work environments, tackling noise pollution is one way to help improve health and wellbeing, while also contributing to wider noise pollution reduction. Living walls have an incredible visual appeal, providing a simple and stylish way to transform your outdoor space. 

phs Greenleaf can help you create the perfect living wall for your business. In addition to designing an attractive feature for your premises, we can discuss ways your living wall can help reduce noise pollution and have other positive impacts on the environment. Talk to us about your needs and let our creative team design and install your ideal living wall.