Supporting Noise Action Week 2026

Noise pollution is recognised as the second largest environmental threat to human health. Excessive noise is linked to serious impacts including hearing loss, stress, sleep disturbance, heart disease, strokes and dementia, affecting millions of people nationwide. The IOA is supporting the relaunch of Noise Action Week (NAW), co-ordinated by the Environmental Implementation Community (EPIC). Our President elect, Paul Shields say:

"Noise Action Week is a vital opportunity to connect research, policy and practice relating to sound, noise and vibration, and the IOA is proud to support the campaign and encourage broad engagement."

We  are eager to help spread the message that noise matters for our health and wellbeing. Activities during the week include:

• 11th May NAW launch webinar, chaired by our President elect Paul Shields, hear about the impact of noise on our health, and how environmental health professionals work to ensure noise is considered in planning. 
• 15th May - webinar looking at best practice for noise in pubs and clubs, featuring Peter Rogers, specialist in building and environmental acoustics, sustainability advocate and active in our Parliamentary Liaison Group.

Noise Action Week is focussing on neighbourhood noise from dogs, pubs and clubs - much loved parts of UK life, that  can also create real challenges for neighbours and workplaces. With thoughtful management, it is possible to protect wellbeing and enjoyment for all.

A free communications toolkit and other resources are  available from EPIC. Organisations and individuals can find out more, access resources and sign up for updates via the Noise Action Week webpage.

Noise Action Week is also supported by  the Royal Environmental  Institute of Scotland (REHIS), the Association of Noise Consultants (ANC), the Noise Abatement Society, the UK Noise Association, and the Noise App.