Noise footprint of tourist accommodations: a novel approach towards soundscape quality assessment

Environmental noise is a global problem with multiscale consequences, affecting human well-being, environmental health and business efficiency. Several tourist accommodations aiming towards a more competitive and profitable business, produce the by-product of noise thus resulting in a higher noise footprint. The aim of this research is to propose an approach towards the assessment and calculation of the noise footprint of tourist accommodations. Three tourist accommodations located in Lesbos Island (North Aegean Greece) were studied. The transportational, functional, natural and recreational sound sources were assessed. Furthermore, the degree of background noise was included. Noise measurements were conducted using a calibrated sound level meter. The equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) noise indicator levels for each type of source were obtained and analyzed. In order to assess the overall noise footprint a composite indicator based on the signal to noise ratio was shaped. Furthermore, noise maps were created in order to visualize the noise footprint extent of the hotels studied. The main findings of this research highlighted the seasonality of the resulting noise footprint. The promotion of natural and recreational sound sources contributes towards the new concept of net-zero noise and supports quiet and sustainable tourist accommodations.