Acoustic Ecologists and Environmental Psychologists

Working Toward a Quieter and Healthier Soundscape

Abstract

The acoustic ecologist and the environmental psychologist have much in common; both are concerned with the role of sound in people’s lives. However, due to different educational backgrounds and experiences, the acoustic ecologist focuses to a greater extent on listening as a way to know and understand the sounds in the environment; the environmental psychologist is more interested in learning how these sounds affect people, especially those that are labeled noise. Despite their differences, acoustic ecologists and environmental psychologists would agree that the sounds around us have grown more unpleasant. Both would also concur that the health and well-being of all people depend on eliminating the harsh and piercing sounds which are dominating our aural environment. Acoustic ecologists and environmental psychologists should join forces in educating people about the dangers of these sounds and the fact that—as a result of noise—so many natural, beautiful and useful sounds have been cast into the background of our perception. This collaboration could go far in fostering a healthier soundscape for all of us. To paraphrase R. Murray Schafer: If the acoustic environment is a musical composition, then it is up to us to create a beautiful one.