Assessing modelled outdoor traffic-induced noise and air pollution around urban structures using the concept of landscape metrics

Acoustic noise and particle air pollution are among the most prominent environmental stressors in cities. They often result in cardiorespiratory diseases among urban dwellers and thus counteract important urban health targets. In cities, both stressors often occur simultaneously because their main source is urban traffic. Nevertheless, little is known about the combined exposure of acoustic noise and particle air pollution and their spatial distribution in urban residential areas. Filling this gap, landscape metrics were used to explain outdoor noise and PM10 patterns. Using Leipzig in central Germany as a case study, a highly statistical relationship exists between particle air pollution concentration and acoustic noise level that differs according to the urban structure type, as determined by landscape metrics. In conclusion, landscape metrics are very useful in predicting noise and PM10 exposure, together and in combination, for people in urban structures. Conversely, landscape metrics might serve as initial indicators of potential noise and air pollution in residential areas in cases in which no measured data are available, e.g., for planning purposes.