Swiss officials are considering a petition from the Swiss Noise League or Lärmliga, that asks for stronger enforcement of rules against noise pollution on high-traffic city streets. The group got 20,000 signatures on its petition.
The plan would use ‘noise radars,’ similar to ones that were tested last year by Switzerland’s Office for the Environment. The devices measure the sound level of passing cars and take pictures of the number plates of offending vehicles. No specific level for fines exists yet.
The test last year in Geneva recorded up to 200 vehicles a day that were over the 82 decibel limit that would lead to a fine; Some were as high as 117 decibels. Over 70% of the over-the-limit vehicles were motorcycles, with the rest split about evenly between cars and trucks. 80 decibels is about equivalent to a noisy restaurant or factory.
National action on the issue would require approval by the Federal Council and legislation to establish levels and fines. That would take months and perhaps longer. But Zurich has decided to move ahead on its own, and will soon establish a date for a start.
