Improving the quality of urban ecosystem through ecological soundscape management

Abstract In urban ecosystems, the interaction between humans and the environment is often dominated by noise from human activities, with the importance of natural sounds or the ecological soundscape being ignored. The ecological soundscape plays a crucial role in ecological interactions and the development of urban ecosystems by supporting biodiversity. Therefore, the impact of ecological soundscapes on enhancing sustainable ecosystems is aimed to be analyzed in this study. The influence of the ecological soundscape on the sustainability of living organisms in urban open spaces is evaluated, serving as an indicator for ecosystem improvement. Sound recordings were conducted at four strategic points. The dominant sound types are identified, and the role of the ecological soundscape in shaping soundscape patterns in urban open spaces is evaluated. Babakan Siliwangi Urban Forest was selected as the case study due to its significant benefits in improving the urban ecosystem. The results indicate that BSUF has not been fully taken over by the ecological soundscape. Natural sounds are masked by the constant human-made noise from traffic, indicating a decrease in biodiversity. Recommendations for enhancing the ecosystem through the ecological soundscape approach are provided, including noise reduction measures such as creating buffer zones with vegetation, expanding green spaces as habitats for wildlife contributing to natural sounds, and creating conditions supporting diverse flora and fauna. It is expected that these recommendations will lead to an enhancement of the ecological soundscape in urban areas and foster more sustainable and diverse ecosystems.