INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF TREES AS NOISE BARRIER ON URBAN NOISE POLLUTION THROUGH 3D SCENE MODELLING.

Noise pollution is a cause for concern, especially since it has detrimental health effects. Due to Singapore's limited geographical size and rising population density, gas stations, roads, and even expressways are built close to residential neighborhoods. This situation is increasingly common in dense cities worldwide, making Singapore a relevant case study for global urban environments. Noise pollution in such areas is a significant problem, as a result of frequent traffic on these routes, especially during rush hours. The purpose of this project is to create a pipeline from a scene simulation to modelling noise propagation. This project aims to develop a scene modelling platform that will help bridge the gap between scene and noise modelling. It also aims to investigate different noise barriers and their effectiveness against vehicular noise pollution. Through experiments conducted in residential and park settings, we demonstrate the varying effects of trees on noise reduction, highlighting their potential to attenuate noise levels, especially in densely populated areas. Our findings reveal that while trees may not completely block noise like solid barriers, they offer additional benefits such as airflow and visual enhancement of the environment. Furthermore, we assess the impact of reforestation and strategic tree placement in reducing traffic noise, providing insights for urban planners and policymakers. Additionally, we present the case study modelling the scene after observed StreetView, showcasing the significant noise reduction benefits of planting trees in residential areas. Overall, our study contributes to the development of more effective strategies for mitigating noise pollution and creating healthier, more sustainable urban environments. Demo Video: https://youtu.be/zi1R-1xDkwU [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]