Noise abatement in Espoo

Noise is one of the most significant environmental problems in Espoo. Approximately one in five Espoo residents is exposed to long-term noise levels that may be harmful to health. The aim of noise abatement in Espoo is to prevent the generation of noise, reduce exposure to noise, and ensure a pleasant and healthy living environment.

The EU Environmental Noise Directive requires cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants to carry out noise mapping every five years and, based on it, prepare a noise abatement action plan. The aim of these plans is to reduce environmental noise, i.e. unwanted outdoor noise caused by human activity, as well as exposure to it.

The most recent joint noise abatement action plan(external link, opens in a new window) (in Finnish) for Espoo and Kauniainen covers the years 2024–2028.

Traffic is the most significant source of environmental noise in Espoo and Kauniainen. Road traffic noise is particularly noticeable along Ring Road I, Ring Road II and Ring Road III, as well as the Länsiväylä and Turunväylä motorways. Rail traffic is a major source of noise along the coastal railway line and in Kauniainen. Read more about noise sources in Espoo here.

In Espoo, measures based on the noise abatement action plan have been taken to reduce noise exposure. Noise barriers have been built, for example, along the ring roads and Turunväylä. Several electric buses operate in Espoo, which reduces noise emissions from public transport. In addition, the number of electric vehicle charging stations has been increased and a city bike system has been introduced, promoting quieter modes of transport.

Traffic reduction measures also reduce noise, even though their primary purpose is to reduce climate emissions. Noise can also be mitigated through land use planning. Read more about other noise abatement measures here. The city’s noise abatement efforts include an action plan that presents measures to reduce environmental noise.

The cities of Espoo and Kauniainen have prepared a joint noise abatement action plan for 2024–2028, which emphasises prevention, land use and traffic planning, and effective cooperation. The cities primarily reduce traffic noise through proactive solutions as part of planning processes.

The action plan contains the key measures to improve the quality of the living environment, protect quiet areas and reduce exposure to noise.

Read more about the measures: Noise abatement action plan 2024–2028(external link, opens in a new window) (in Finnish)

The City of Espoo’s Environmental Protection Unit is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the noise abatement action plan. The unit reports annually to the Environment and Building Control Committee on the progress made. Effective noise abatement requires close cooperation, and several city units are involved, including Environmental Protection, the City Planning Department, the Public Works Department, Building Control, and Environmental Health Services.