The noise machine at the Admiralsbrücke with Mayor Clara Hermann and inventor Peter Singer Photo: Sven Meissner
By Pauline von Pezold
The plug is pulled! After just three months, the CityTree-Lärmomat pilot project is over. While it is not yet clear whether it will make a comeback next year, district mayor Clara Herrmann and inventor Peter Singer are taking stock.
The wooden wonder box has several functions: noise meter, air filter and cooling. And as far as climate factors are concerned, the project was apparently a success. “The CityTree had a great function for city life and air quality,” summarizes Herrmann. The cooling capacity corresponded to that of around 81 trees and cooled the area around it by up to four degrees on hot days.
However, the noise control seems to be less effective. The device measures the ambient noise. If it becomes too loud between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., a red warning light lights up. “The noise control device led to important findings, but you can’t say whether it also made it quieter,” says Herrmann.
After three months, the pilot project is over: the electrician pulls the plug Photo: Sven Meissner
It turned out that there were often noise peaks of up to 75 decibels between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. – anything over 55 decibels is too loud. However, it is questionable whether those causing the noise will be calmed down by the flashing red light.
Nevertheless, those responsible consider the project a success. “We will evaluate the data and then it may continue next year,” says Herrmann. What speaks against it is the cost. The project cost the district a total of 10,200 euros in three months.