Strategic environmental noise mapping & action plans in Athens ring road (Atiiki Odos) - Greece

Abstract

Attica Tollway, a modern motorway extending along 65 km, constitutes the ring road of the greater metropolitan area of Athens and the backbone of the road network of the whole Attica Prefecture. Attiki Odos during 2008-2010, in close collaboration with the University of Thessaly -Faculty of Civil Engineering (Laboratory of Transportation Environmental Acoustics (L.T.E.A.), has complete a full SNM & Maps & Noise Action Plans) study for the road network which resulted in the implementation of an extensive NAP 2010 introducing an important quantity of PMMA transparent noise barriers: some 87.000 sqm of transparent noise barriers in some 138 different locations along the road network. This article presents the main results and conclusion of this research that was completed according to the Directive 2002/49/EC of 25 June 2002 adopted by the European Parliament and Council and the COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ON AUGUST 6th 2003 (2003/613/EC). A full evaluation of the relevant Strategic Noise Maps & Noise Action Plans is also presented in this article along with comparative analysis of the population exposed to various noises according to the existing legal framework and further the criteria A & B suggested by the Ministry of the Environment for the EU noise indicators L den & L night' Further future action plans which are already under consideration are also presented.