Problems of Evaluation of Sound and Smell Discomfort in Sustainable Development

The conception of sustainable development assumes a long-lasting improvement of living quality of present and future generations what is integrally associated with environmental improvement. Sound and smell are vital elements of “quality of life” which is constantly felt in our life. This “quality” is also treated as a determinant of effectiveness of sustainable development implementation. Odours and noise are often reasons for many complaints and they are factors that hinder to “experience landscape”. Valuation of sound and smell discomfort is always a very problematic task because they are subjective feelings, connecting with personal sensitivity.

In the paper, significance of sound and smell in the environment is emphasized. Then, some methods of protection against noise and odours are presented. In the end, examples of projects which indicate importance of environment quality are described. Subjective estimation of sound and smell discomfort should be integral component of environment protection and sustainable development strategies. Developing awareness about role of sound and smell in environment and their influence on human life are also of great importance.