Soundscapes: The Acoustic Ecology of the Urban Environment

Soundscapes refer to the everyday sounds that compose our environment, especially in cities, including natural noises like birds and wind, as well as human-made sounds such as traffic and conversations. Acoustic ecology studies how these sounds influence our well-being and the overall atmosphere of urban spaces. By understanding soundscapes, we can design cities that are more pleasant, reduce noise pollution, and enhance the quality of life. Essentially, it's about recognizing and thoughtfully managing the collection of sounds that shape our experience of urban environments.