Regions and cities call for stronger EU action on noise pollution 

The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) has called on the European Commission to step up efforts to tackle noise pollution, urging a revision of the Environmental Noise Directive to better protect people’s health and the environment. 

At its plenary session on 6–7 May 2026, the CoR adopted an opinion led by Marieke Schouten (NL/Greens & Progressives), highlighting the persistent and widespread impact of noise across Europe. 

Despite more than 20 years of EU action, the number of people exposed to harmful noise levels has not significantly decreased. Local and regional leaders warn that current rules are not delivering sufficient improvements, with noise continuing to affect both urban and rural communities. 

A key message of the opinion is the need to align EU standards with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, which are significantly stricter than current EU thresholds. The CoR stresses that existing rules underestimate both exposure levels and the associated health risks. 

“Noise pollution remains a major but often underestimated challenge for people’s health and quality of life. We need stronger EU action that reflects scientific evidence and supports local solutions,” said rapporteur Marieke Schouten. 

The opinion underscores that noise pollution is not just an inconvenience—it is a serious public health, environmental and social issue, linked to cardiovascular disease, sleep disturbance and reduced well-being. It also disproportionately affects more vulnerable communities and places a significant economic burden on society. 

The CoR therefore calls on the Commission to revise the Environmental Noise Directive, introduce more ambitious targets, and strengthen action at source. 

Local and regional authorities, which play a central role in managing transport, spatial planning and public spaces, must be better supported through clearer EU guidance, stronger coordination and adequate funding. 

With the EU currently off track to meet its zero pollution targets, the CoR stresses that more decisive and coordinated action is needed to ensure quieter, healthier and more liveable communities across Europe.  

In drafting the opinion, rapporteur Marieke Schouten was supported by expert Reinier Balkema.