Conducting an orchestra to reduce vehicle noise

As with conducting an orchestra, directing the “sections” of vehicle noise pollution advocacy and hitting the right notes can be a challenge. Noise comes from a variety of sources and can be perceived differently by different people. And while the conductor tries to reconcile incompatible voices, the notes of regulation and legislation can be heard in the background, further complicating the piece. In Canada, No More Noise Toronto has initiated change at City Hall in a very short time. The grassroots campaign has been addressing high-volume vehicle noise by collecting data, critiquing existing processes, and encouraging Toronto citizens to participate, which has not been done previously. Using meters and crowdsourced methods, No More Noise Toronto seeks to understand noise “from the bedroom window,” which validates citizens’ noise reporting stories. Reviewing findings related to processes that lead to inaccurate data, barriers to involvement in the civic engagement process, and challenges created by frustration and feelings of apathy, we discuss actions taken and practices put into place as we’ve promoted a collaborative approach with stakeholders to find solutions and common ground in the shared goal of protecting the health of Toronto citizens.