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Over half a million children across Europe are suffering from impaired reading skills due to prolonged exposure to transportation noise, according to a new briefing released by the European Environment Agency (EEA). The report, titled The Effect of Environmental Noise on Children’s Reading Ability and Behaviour in Europe, underscores a growing public health concern as more than 20% of Europeans face long-term noise from road, rail, and air transport.

The EEA's analysis reveals that the noise generated by vehicles, trains, and aircraft is not just a nuisance—it directly harms the development of children’s cognitive and behavioral skills. More than 500,000 children in Europe are experiencing difficulties with reading comprehension, while nearly 60,000 are suffering from behavioral problems, which could have lasting effects on their academic performance and overall well-being.

Long-Term Noise Exposure Threatens Children's Future Opportunities

The EEA briefing highlights the detrimental effects of environmental noise on young people, particularly in areas with high transport activity. Children living or attending school near busy roads, railways, or airports are more likely to experience lower academic scores and increased behavior problems compared to their peers in quieter environments.

The report also emphasizes the urgent need for noise reduction measures to protect children’s health. It recommends solutions such as lower speed limits, the use of low-noise pavements and tires, and operational restrictions on aircraft and trains. Additionally, placing schools and homes further from noisy areas, coupled with the installation of noise-reducing landscapes or soundproofing, could help mitigate these risks.

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