Towards new acoustic policies in the 'new normal' of the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

In 2020, Turkish Acoustical Society conducted a survey to measure the pandemic's impact on acoustic evaluation of residential buildings. 1053 people participated in this survey and answered to the questions on their noise annoyances before and during the Covid-19. Results indicated an increased acoustical comfort during the lock-downs due to the decreased environmental noise, but also highlighted the importance of interior noises (from neighbouring dwellings and from one's own dwelling). Other studies from all over the world reported similar results for the first wave of the pandemics. After two years of experience, the question of how user behaviour, acoustical perception and expectance have changed is yet to be answered in order to develop correct strategies and strengthen the acoustical policies for accomplishing sustainable cities. This paper introduces the results of the 2020 study and gives an analysis of the current literature on (1) acoustic perception during the pandemics, (2) working from home and its persistency, and (3) changed user habits in dwellings and in cities. The acoustical requirements in the era of 'new normal' and policy implications are discussed. © ICA 2022.All rights reserved