Noise cameras that aim to curb excessive and unnecessary traffic noise have successfully completed practical tests. Drivers in Switzerland might soon face fines for using them.
Revving engines are a nuisance, and erring drivers are rarely fined: a convertible in downtown Zurich.
Are these the solution in the fight once morest loud, revving engines? In the future, noise cameras will help the police identify vehicles that are excessively noisy. They are similar to speed traps used by authorities to fine drivers and motorcyclists who exceed speed limits.
Support for this new technology in Switzerland is growing. A pilot test in Geneva demonstrated the reliability of the systems. They enable precise identification of excessively loud and unnecessarily noisy journeys, the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) stated in a report that CH Media newspapers also covered.
A majority of the population likely supports the use of these devices. At least, this is what a representative survey conducted as part of the ETH Zurich Environmental Panel in 2023 suggests. The survey revealed that a majority, 60 percent, of those polled favored the introduction of noise cameras.
“Measures once morest noise pollution are not a left-wing issue, but are also supported by the middle class,” says SP National Councilor Gabriela Suter. This Aargau resident has been campaigning once morest excessive engine noise in the Federal Parliament for years. She recently submitted a motion aiming to create the necessary legal framework for noise trap implementation. Politicians from the center and the FDP are supportive of this initiative.
Suter emphasizes that the goal is not to create new laws to punish drivers, but rather to improve enforcement. “The police are already trying to enforce the limits. But it requires a lot of manpower,” she explains. Noise cameras might significantly ease the workload on officers. In fact, the Association of Heads of Traffic Police advocated for the use of noise cameras in a consultation last year.
However, the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) remains skeptical. A spokesperson for the organization prefers alternative solutions, such as noise-absorbing road surfaces, soundproof windows, or quieter tires. Regarding noisy behavior, “preventive awareness campaigns are currently preferable to repressive systems,” the spokesperson stated.
The SVP party firmly opposes the noise cameras. “When I hear these kinds of discussions, I ask myself whether we are simply doing too well,” declares National Councillor Gregor Rutz, a member of the party’s transport committee. Rutz argues that anyone who revs their engine or intentionally makes noise while driving is already fined and that such fines are justified. “But I cannot understand why expensive devices are now being installed to combat such a small, marginal phenomenon,” he concludes.
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Noise Cameras: A Solution to Excessive Traffic Noise in Switzerland?
Revving engines are a nuisance, and erring drivers are rarely fined: a convertible in downtown Zurich.
The issue of excessive traffic noise is a growing concern in Switzerland, with loud engine revving becoming increasingly prevalent. In an effort to curb this nuisance, noise cameras are being considered as a potential solution. These cameras, similar to speed traps, would identify vehicles that exceed noise limits and might be used to issue fines to offending drivers.
Noise Cameras: A Promising Solution
The concept of noise cameras is gaining traction in Switzerland, with recent pilot tests in Geneva proving their effectiveness. These systems can accurately detect and identify vehicles generating excessive noise, allowing for the enforcement of noise regulations. The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) has published a report highlighting the success of these tests, emphasizing the potential of noise cameras to effectively address the problem of noise pollution from vehicles.
Public Support for Noise Cameras
Public opinion surveys conducted by the ETH Zurich Environmental Panel suggest strong support for the introduction of noise cameras. A majority of 60 percent of respondents expressed their favor for this measure, demonstrating a widespread desire to reduce noise pollution.
Gabriela Suter, a National Councilor from the Social Democratic Party (SP), is a staunch advocate for combating excessive engine noise. She has introduced a motion to establish the necessary legal framework for the implementation of noise cameras, garnering support from politicians across the political spectrum.
Addressing the Challenge of Enforcing Noise Regulations
Suter emphasizes that the introduction of noise cameras is not regarding creating new laws but rather regarding providing law enforcement officers with a more effective tool to enforce existing noise regulations. Currently, police officers face significant challenges in enforcing noise limits due to manpower constraints. Noise cameras might streamline enforcement efforts, freeing up police resources for other priorities. Notably, the Association of Heads of Traffic Police has already expressed support for the deployment of noise cameras.
Perspectives and Alternatives
While the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) acknowledges the issue of noise pollution, they remain skeptical of noise cameras. The organization favors alternative solutions such as noise-absorbing road surfaces, soundproof windows, and quieter tires, promoting a more proactive approach. They also advocate for awareness campaigns to address noisy behavior.
A Controversial Issue
The Swiss People’s Party (SVP) is vehemently opposed to the introduction of noise cameras. Gregor Rutz, a National Councilor from the SVP, argues that existing fines are sufficient to address noise violations. He questions the rationale for investing in expensive technology to deal with what he perceives as a minor issue.
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