Urban Traffic Pollution

Noise and air pollution from motor vehicles have a major impact on the physical and mental well-being of urban residents worldwide. Although control measures have already been implemented in most developed countries, noise and air pollution have only recently become major problems in many developing countries, as rapid industrial growth, population increase and improved living standards have led to an increase in car ownership. If control measures are not implemented swiftly in developing countries, the effects on public health will be extremely serious. This book, which has been prepared by WHO in collaboration with the Ecotoxicology Service of the Department of Public Health in Geneva, discusses global trends in noise and air pollution from motor vehicles, their effects on public health, and the control measures available.