Toward acoustic justice: Noise-canceling technologies and urban inequality

Source abstract

This study explores how everyday use of noise-canceling technologies reshapes social and spatial relations in rapidly urbanizing Pakistan. In cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar—where dense populations, informal housing, and weak sound regulation prevail—access to quiet, controllable sound environments is unevenly distributed across social and economic groups. Using qualitative interviews with 28 participants from diverse backgrounds, the research finds that noise-canceling devices provide mental relief in overstimulating settings, help redefine public and private space, and act as status symbols. Cultural norms shape how people interpret noise and quiet, while such technologies enable greater personal autonomy in crowded urban life. Although focused on Pakistan, the problem of excessive noise and unequal access to quiet spaces is global, with World Health Organization limits frequently exceeded worldwide. The study calls for more equitable urban acoustic design, culturally sensitive technology use, and recognition of everyone’s right to controlled sound environments—informing urban planning, workplace policies, and public health efforts.