Joint perspectives

Interview with Arnaud Can, acoustics researcher at UMRAE (Université Gustave Eiffel / Cerema) ; Philippe Audubert, Deputy for Public Policy for the Elderly and Health Prevention at the City of Rezé; Claire Guiu, Deputy of the Urban Planning - Landscape And Ecology Hub and Gwladys Diquelou, Head of the Environment Mission at the City of Rezé.

Philippe Audubert : In late 2021, Université Gustave Eiffel invited us to participate in an experimental project focusing on the issue of noise in cities. The idea of field work with residents interested us straight away. How do they experience and perceive their sound environment? What impact does it have on their daily life? This project provides insight into two areas, the urban environment and health issues in relation to noise pollution. It also illustrates our city’s commitment as a member of the Cities-Health Network.

Arnaud Can : From an acoustic point of view, the city of Rezé is a land of contrasts. On the one hand, there are the airport and highways which cause noise pollution, but on the other hand, there are tourist zones and calm areas beloved by residents.

Claire Guiu : Sound brings people together, and this study provides nuanced insight based on the experience of residents. It also reveals the gaps between regulatory texts and citizen perception.

Philippe Audubert : This approach increases collective awareness around the urban sound environment, going beyond stereotypes whereby noise is always perceived as a source of disturbance.

Arnaud Can : In the past, academic researchers often operated in isolation from local municipalities, but nowadays, there is a true passion for research-action approaches, and this project is a perfect example. It involves residents in actions to improve their daily acoustic environment.

Gwladys Diquelou : We should also mention that SonoRezé piqued the interest of other municipal departments of the City of Rezé, such as Urban Planning and Public Order. The project also perfectly aligns with the framework of the Environmental Noise Prevention (PPBE) plan, led by Nantes Metropole. It offers greater understanding of calm areas, without always focusing solely on the airport. Ambient noise is not always unpleasant, sometimes it can be positive and enjoyable.

Arnaud Can : During the second phase of the project, SonoRezé II, we plan to consider ways in which it could be transferred to other territories, potentially with the creation of a guide aimed at local municipalities and residents.

Philippe Audubert : The project has been received favourably by other municipalities in the region, but for now, interactions have been informal. The second phase, which will involve a larger team and more resources, should make it possible to go deeper in this area.

Claire Guiu : With SonoRezé II, we should be able to fund the creation of artistic events in connection with the project. At the closing seminar, in June 2022, we organised performances with local artists, in connection with acoustic environments in Rezé.