The Benefits and Costs of Noise Reduction

Becker, Nir and Lavee, Doron (2001): The Benefits and Costs of Noise Reduction. Published in: Journal of Environmental Planning and Management , Vol. 1, No. 46 (29 January 2003): pp. 97-111.

Abstract

This paper attempts to measure, in a cost–benefit analysis, a stricter noise abatement programme for noise originating from roads in Israel. Using the hedonic price method for three large cities and rural area transactions, a benefit from noise reduction was found. In order to perform a social cost–benefit analysis, a measure of benefit has been derived for 1 km of road and has been compared with the cost of noise reduction under different types of road structure. The results indicate that even though benefits have largely increased when compared to past decades (e.g. 1.2% of an average urban property value per 1 decibel reduction), the decision to insulate a given road is dependent on location and road structure. This raises the normative question of a national vs. regional standard that decision makers should be aware of and such studies could be of help in this respect.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Cost benefit analysis, Noise, Israel
• Subjects: Q - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics ; Environmental and Ecological Economics > Q5 - Environmental Economics > Q51 - Valuation of Environmental Effects

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