Volume: 4, 2025
4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: E020
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.E020
Published online: 9 April 2025
ICDSUPL, 4, E020 (2025)
Spatial determinants of acoustic climate and noise pollution in Roztocze National Park
Jordan Wilk1*, Joanna Szyszlak-Bargłowicz1
1 Department of Power Engineering and Transportation, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka 28, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: jordan.wilk@up.lublin.pl
Abstract
Protected areas play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, yet they are increasingly exposed to anthropogenic noise pollution. Spatial factors such as terrain morphology, land use, road network, tourist activity, and acoustic characteristics significantly influence the acoustic climate of these areas. Understanding the spatial determinants of noise propagation is essential for effective noise management and ecosystem protection. The main objective of this study was to assess the acoustic impact of spatial factors, with a particular focus on the road network in Roztocze National Park (RNP), as well as to characterize noise propagation as an environmental pollutant disrupting the functioning of natural forest ecosystems. The study was conducted in a protected area, where equivalent continuous sound pressure levels (LAeq) were measured at distances of 0 m, 250 m, and 500 m from selected roads. Measurements were performed using a Class 1 sound level meter, following standardized environmental noise assessment procedures. Meteorological conditions, such as temperature and wind speed, were also recorded. Spatial characteristics, including terrain morphology and land use, were analyzed using GIS tools and a high-resolution digital elevation model. Environmental sound recordings at each measurement point helped identify dominant sound sources and differentiate between natural and anthropogenic noise components. Statistical analyses determined correlations between noise levels, spatial factors, and distance from roads. The highest noise levels were recorded near roads, dominated by anthropogenic sounds. At 250 m, both natural and anthropogenic sounds were present, whereas at 500 m, natural sounds prevailed. It was demonstrated that spatial factors have a significant impact on noise levels and the soundscape at the measurement sites. Despite the lack of legal regulations defining permissible noise levels in such areas, Roztocze National Park experiences significant noise pollution, negatively affecting the ecosystem and local wildlife. The study highlights the need for integrated noise management strategies in protected areas, including monitoring, mitigation measures, and public awareness. Effective noise reduction is crucial for preserving the soundscape and maintaining the ecological integrity of these areas.
Keywords: noise pollution, acoustic climate, protected areas, soundscape, national park
How to cite
J. Wilk, J. Szyszlak-Bargłowicz, 2025. Spatial determinants of acoustic climate and noise pollution in Roztocze National Park. In: 4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.E020