As part of the city’s Noise Action Plan, originally launched in 2014 and active until 2029, Lisbon aims to significantly expand its number of quiet zones from the current 12 to a total of 26 areas. These zones are defined by noise levels of 55 dB(A) or lower during the day (Lden) and 45 dB(A) or lower at night (Ln), helping reduce sound pollution and improve urban livability.

Strategic Noise Map 2022 data:

  • 74,118 residents, or 13.6% of Lisbon’s population, are impacted by ambient noise exceeding 65 dB(A).
  • Road traffic remains the primary source of environmental noise in Lisbon.
  • The city’s entire territory is classified as a mixed-use zone, where ambient noise must not exceed legal limits set at 65 dB(A) (Lden) and 55 dB(A) (Ln), according to the Lisbon Municipal Master Plan.

Political reactions

The proposal for the map update was approved with varying political positions, including abstentions from parties such as PS, PAN, and Chega, while parties like PSD and CDS-PP voted in favor. Critics, including IL (Liberal Initiative), highlighted the lack of data on cruise ship noise, rail traffic, and nightlife, prompting a recommendation to incorporate 2023 air and airport noise data once released by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA).

Councillor Rui Cordeiro, responsible for noise-related issues, confirmed that the city is actively collaborating with the Port of Lisbon and the APA to address maritime and nightlife noise. He emphasised the importance of updating the map to reflect Lisbon’s evolving urban dynamics and to adopt noise mitigation strategies where needed.

In response to growing concerns, the Lisbon Municipal Assembly also approved a recommendation to ensure that the next update process will be transparent, with public access to noise data and the involvement of citizens and local associations in shaping future noise policies.

Lisbon’s ongoing efforts to combat urban noise pollution highlight the city’s dedication to improving the quality of life for its residents. With strategic plans in place and enhanced quiet zones on the horizon, the city is taking important steps to reduce harmful noise exposure and create a healthier urban environment.