The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has urged the public to take decisive steps to reduce noise pollution, warning of its increasing impact on public health and environmental wellbeing.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, to mark International Noise Awareness Day under the theme “The Sound of Tomorrow,” the Authority stressed the need for collective responsibility in managing noise levels across the country.
“Sound is essential in our day-to-day lives; however, noise, defined as loud or undesirable sound, can become both a nuisance and a serious health concern depending on its intensity, frequency and timing,” the EPA said.
The Authority noted that excessive noise disrupts communication and contributes to a range of physiological and psychological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, headaches, stress, fatigue, sleep disturbances and noise-induced hearing loss.
“Noise pollution reduces productivity and can even affect the intelligence quotient of children, with its impact disproportionately felt among children and the elderly,” the statement added.
According to the EPA, noise is generated from a wide range of everyday activities, including religious events, commercial operations, transport systems, industrial processes and social gatherings such as funerals and weddings. The use of generators, public address systems and outdoor loudspeakers was also cited as a major contributor.
To tackle the issue, the Authority referenced the Ghana Standard for Health Protection—Requirements for Ambient Noise Control (GS 1222:2018), which sets permissible noise levels for different zones.
“Noise pollution can be prevented. We therefore urge all Ghanaians to comply with the provisions of GS 1222 and take practical steps to reduce noise from their daily activities,” the EPA emphasised.
Recommended measures include limiting the use of loudspeakers in residential areas, maintaining equipment to minimise noise output, and avoiding the use of vehicles and machinery that produce excessive or disturbing sounds.
