The need of inclusion of noise as a key factor in traffic simulation modelling

Road traffic noise is usually the most prevalent noise source in urban areas, especially those with commercial or tourist ports. The assessment of noise exposure of citizens through noise mapping is essential, yet its accuracy is highly dependent on the methodology of estimation, verification, and the use of real data. Traffic simulation software has recently been used to extract traffic volume, vehicle speed, etc. for noise mapping, although it has not been sufficiently validated with noise measurements. In this study, part of the SALPIAM project, we take the lead and integrate road traffic noise into the methodology described in a guide for applying traffic microsimulation modelling software. We present preliminary results by applying the integration in a case study in Piombino (Italy), through a comprehensive open-source pipeline using a microscopic traffic simulation tool through SUMO and NoiseModelling software including field measurements.