Call for tougher rules to combat aircraft noise

Date: 09/11/00

By Renée Cordes

EURO MPs are calling for strict new

A report by Dutch Green MEP Alexander de Roo urges the Union to adopt ceilings on airport noise endorsed by the World Health Organisation, and insists the Commission must come forward soon with proposals for new laws specifically to tackle the problem.

The report argues that this is needed "because economic competition makes it very difficult for authorities in member states to enforce noise standards to protect the health of the citizens". It points out that some carriers have moved from airports with strict noise limits to others up to 100 kilometres away with far less severe or even non-existent controls.

The Commission's proposal would oblige authorities to assess noise levels using commonly agreed methods and draw up 'noise maps' showing which areas are most affected by the problem. It also sets targets for reducing the number of people affected by noise pollution, but stops short of calling for common standards. Instead, it suggests member states should use two indicators: one measuring the level of 'annoyance' at all times of the day, and a second related to 'sleep disturbance' during night-time hours.

Environmental campaigners have welcomed De Roo's attempt to bolster the planned legislation, but some say the limits suggested in his report are still too weak.

Euro MPs are calling for strict new EU-wide limits on aircraft noise, arguing that the European Commission's plans to combat all sources of noise pollution are too general to have any real impact.