What is it about?
As people gather in pubs and bars to enjoy drinks, catch up with old friends, and mingle with new acquaintances, they are surrounded by a cacophony of sounds. From the clinking of glasses to the hum of background music, the noise levels can be quite high. Not to mention, the chatter, laughter, and occasional outburst of cheers from patrons add to the overall noise pollution. But just how loud does it get in these social hubs, and what impact does this noise have on the neighboring residents? This study aimed to explore the social dynamics of pubs and bars, shedding light on the research findings regarding noise levels within these establishments.
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Why is it important?
The density of pubs and bars per 100,000 people ranges from 75 to 150 in many developed countries, contrasting sharply with the figures in China, including Hong Kong, where the range is between 4 and 14. Previous research studies revealed that the noise levels in Hong Kong's pubs and bars could reach up to 80 dBA, with occasional spikes up to 97 dBA during peak hours, while the average noise level was around 75 dBA during happy hours. Similar patterns have been observed in different regions across the globe. Undoubtedly, the noise emanating from pubs and bars can have a significant impact on the nearby residents.
Perspectives
Writing this article was a great pleasure as my co-author and I delved into the realm of noise dynamics in city nightlife, with a special emphasis on the impact of pub and bar noises on the surrounding community. We genuinely believe that patrons should be mindful of their noise levels when exiting pubs and bars, ensuring a more harmonious coexistence with nearby residents.
Professor W.M. To
Macao Polytechnic University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Noise dynamics in city nightlife: Assessing impact and potential solutions for residential proximity to pubs and bars, January 2023, Acoustical Society of America (ASA),
DOI: 10.1121/2.0001863.
You can read the full text:
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