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Poster Short Abstract

To overcome the high cost of noise sensors, a distributed citizen science model was tested in Flanders. Sensors were shared via local coordinators, enabling flexible deployment and broad participation. This approach proves scalable and policy-relevant for environmental noise mapping.

Poster Abstract

Environmental noise affects quality of life and health, yet traditional measurement methods are costly and limited in scale. As part of the Programme for Innovative Public Procurement on Environmental Noise, a proof of concept was developed for a large-scale citizen science project in Flanders. The central question was: How can we efficiently and reproducibly measure source-specific noise exposure and perceived annoyance among as many citizens as possible?

The project tested an innovative distributed model in which sensors are passed between citizens via local coordinators such as schools, associations, and municipalities. Participants conducted measurements and completed surveys about their noise experience. This approach reduces costs, increases flexibility, and activates citizens to map their sound environment.

The distributed model proved effective in leveraging existing networks and significantly reduced the operational burden on the central team. It enabled flexible reuse of a limited number of expensive sensors, supported by local coordinators, and showed potential for scalable deployment. Key success factors included clear role definitions, accessible visualisations, and continuous support. Schools emerged as particularly strong partners due to their structured environment and educational value. The approach offers a promising pathway for inclusive, cost-efficient, and policy-relevant noise monitoring.